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Barely One Year in Office: Rector Awuzie Highlights Early Gains, Order and Institutional Renewal at Federal Polytechnic Oko’s Carol of Nine Lessons


Barely months after assuming office on February 5, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has outlined early gains recorded under her administration, stressing discipline, peace and institutional renewal as pillars of her leadership.

Dr. Awuzie spoke on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Polytechnic’s Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons held at the Convocation Arena, attended by members of the Governing Council, former rectors, principal officers, staff, students and other stakeholders.

Reflecting on the significance of Christmas, the Rector described the season as one of hope, unity and moral rebirth, urging the Polytechnic community to embrace compassion, humility and shared responsibility. She noted that within Igbo culture, Christmas goes beyond celebration, symbolising communal living and mutual care.

Commending staff for their dedication and resilience, Dr. Awuzie acknowledged the contributions of academic, administrative and technical personnel to the stability of the institution. She also charged students to uphold discipline, integrity and diligence, describing them as the pride of the institution and the hope of the nation. Parents, partners and stakeholders were equally appreciated for their continued support.

Highlighting achievements recorded in less than one year in office, the Rector announced that the Governing Council, at its 124th regular meeting, approved the 2026 appraisal and promotion exercise for academic and non-teaching staff, effective January 2026. She disclosed that promotion letters would be issued shortly.

She further revealed that the Senator Barnabas Gemade Medical Centre, Ufuma, is set to commence operations following the procurement of all required equipment, with installation to begin immediately. According to her, the resuscitated Moment FM Radio in the Department of Mass Communication has also received its energy infrastructure, paving the way for full broadcasting operations.

Dr. Awuzie added that work at the ICT Experience Centre, a Federal Government pilot project under the Office of the First Lady and sponsored by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), has reached about 65 per cent completion. She also announced the resumption of work on the Hospitality and Hotel Complex after its revalidation by TETFund, noting that the facility would provide quality accommodation and hospitality services on completion. In addition, new chairs and desks have been supplied and are being installed across lecture halls on the Oko campus.

“These milestones, achieved within a short period, are clear indicators of renewal and steady repositioning of the Polytechnic for relevance, excellence and national impact,” she said.

On governance, the Rector reaffirmed that her appointment was duly made by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in line with established regulations, stressing that politicking and distractions were over. She urged staff and students to work collectively with Management to project and protect the institution’s image.

She reiterated the administration’s zero tolerance for indiscipline, corruption and actions capable of damaging the Polytechnic’s reputation, while assuring staff of fairness, transparency and adherence to due process. She disclosed that the Governing Council has approved appropriate placements for deserving staff with genuine grievances and encouraged others with record-related issues or conversion requests to follow approved procedures beginning January 2026.

The Carol of Nine Lessons featured scripture readings by key members of the Polytechnic community. The First Lesson (Matthew 1:18–25) was read by the Rector, Dr. Awuzie. Dr. Ezekwe read the Second Lesson (Luke 1:30–38), while Rev. Moses Okeke delivered the Third Lesson (Luke 1:39–45). The Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr. (Mrs.) Akabuike, read the Fourth Lesson (Isaiah 9:2, 6–7). The Fifth Lesson was read by Ven. Ferguson Ezeokafor. The Sixth Lesson (Luke 2:1–7) was read by Mr. Nwabuezenna, the Polytechnic Librarian, while Mrs. Chinwe Nduife read the Seventh Lesson (Luke 2:8–16). Former Acting Rector, Mr. Chukwujekwu Ubaka, delivered the Eighth Lesson (John 1:1–5), and the Ninth Lesson (Matthew 2:1–11) was read by Dr. Joseph Obi, former Bursar.

The event also featured special recognitions. Ambassador Engr. Prince Nwankwo was honoured for his contributions to the institution. Dr. Gift Eyise received the Most Friendly Staff Award (Female Category), describing the honour as a pleasant surprise. The Most Hardworking Staff Award went to Mr. Christopher Nwafor, who pledged to sustain his commitment to duty. Engr. Dr. John Egbunike Ananti emerged Most Friendly Staff (Male Category), while Odumegwu Chinaecherm Emmanuel, former SUG President, received the Outstanding Student Leadership Award. The Most Diligent Staff Award was presented to Mr. Ikechukwu Chinegbu of the Bursary Unit.

Dr. Awuzie concluded by praying for peace, unity and renewed purpose within the Polytechnic community, expressing optimism that 2026 would usher in greater excellence and divine favour for the institution.

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