Federal Polytechnic Oko Rector Wins National Award as Outstanding Rector in Nigeria for 2026

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has been recognized on a national stage for her leadership and commitment to student development, earning the prestigious Outstanding Rector in Nigeria Award for 2026 from the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS).

The award was presented during the 46th Senate Sitting of NAPS, hosted at Federal Polytechnic Oko, under the theme “Prioritizing Local Industries in Nigeria: A Case Study of Polytechnic Education.” The recognition highlights Dr. Awuzie’s impact on academic excellence, student welfare, and institutional development within Nigeria’s polytechnic system.

In addition to the award, the Rector was conferred with the title of Honorary Life Comrade by NAPS. This distinguished recognition grants her lifetime participation in the association’s activities, including the opportunity to contribute ideas and provide guidance on matters affecting polytechnic students nationwide.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Awuzie expressed gratitude to NAPS for the honor, reaffirming her commitment to advancing student welfare, strengthening academic programmes, and supporting initiatives that enhance employability and entrepreneurship among students.

Welcoming participants earlier, the Rector encouraged student leaders to engage in meaningful discussions and develop practical solutions that will bridge the gap between education and industry. She emphasized the importance of aligning academic training with real-world demands to drive national growth and economic development.

Describing the theme of the Senate Sitting as timely, she noted that polytechnic education plays a critical role in building technical capacity, fostering innovation, and supporting industrial expansion in Nigeria. According to her, institutions like Federal Polytechnic Oko are central to developing the skilled workforce required to sustain local industries and promote economic resilience.

Speaking at the event, the Senate President of NAPS, Comrade Festus Oyewumi, commended the Rector for hosting the national gathering and for her contributions to the advancement of polytechnic education. He described technical education as the backbone of national development, stressing that no country can achieve technological growth without practical skills and innovation.

He highlighted key challenges facing the polytechnic sector, including inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, outdated equipment, and discrimination against polytechnic graduates in the labor market. He called on the government to prioritize investment in laboratories, workshops, and research, as well as implement policies that promote equality and recognize the value of technical education.

According to him, empowering polytechnic students is essential for building a productive economy driven by innovation, skilled labor, and industrial growth.

The event also featured the recognition of the Dean of Student Affairs, Comrade Chibuzor Asomugha, who was honored as the Most Friendly Dean, Students Affairs, in acknowledgment of his dedication to student welfare and support services.

The Senate Sitting attracted key stakeholders, including the National President of NAPS, Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, members of the national executive, past NAPS leaders, Student Union Government presidents from across the country, and other prominent figures in the education sector.

This recognition further positions Federal Polytechnic Oko as a leading institution in Nigeria’s technical education landscape, committed to excellence, innovation, and the development of highly skilled graduates ready to contribute to national economic growth.