PRESS STATEMENT
Federal Polytechnic Nekede, rated number one by NBTE since 2017, continues to uphold its enviable standards as a leading federal institution.
Addressing the newly employed staff at their Orientation and Onboading exercise, the Rector, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Igbokwe, warmly welcomed them into the Polytechnic family, noting that “today marks the beginning of a new chapter in your professional life, and the Institution is delighted that you have chosen to be part of us.”
She urged them to fully identify with the mission and vision statements of the institution, which remain the guiding compass for every staff member.
The Rector emphasized the following key expectations:
1. Avoidance of Illicit Practices: Staff were strongly advised to steer clear of any forms of bribery, sexual harassment, examination malpractice, or misuse of official privileges. Integrity and transparency must remain the foundation of all professional engagements.
2. Punctuality and Regular Attendance: Lateness and absenteeism were described as serious infractions that reduce productivity and tarnish institutional image. Every staff member must cultivate a culture of discipline by arriving early and giving due presence to assigned duties.
3. Compliance with Clock-In Machine Policy: All staff must consistently clock in and clock out using the official biometric machine, as this serves as the primary record for attendance, punctuality, and work-hour accountability. Circumventing or manipulating the clock-in system is a breach of trust and attracts disciplinary action. Proper use of this system strengthens institutional efficiency and transparency.
4. Readiness for Biometric Capturing: In line with federal standards, staff must complete biometric registration, which guarantees proper identification, access control, and payroll integrity. Every employee must cooperate fully in this exercise.
5. Dress Code and Personal Conduct: Professional appearance is a reflection of institutional pride. Staff were enjoined to dress decently, maintain good grooming, and conduct themselves with dignity, decorum, and respect in all circumstances.
6. Dedication, Commitment, and Value Addition: Beyond routine duties, staff must demonstrate loyalty, hard work, and a proactive mindset that adds measurable value to the institution’s academic and administrative system.
7. Confidentiality Policy: Staff must uphold the highest level of discretion in handling official information. Documents, records, and data obtained in the course of duty are strictly for professional use and must not be disclosed to unauthorized persons. Breach of confidentiality undermines trust, exposes the institution to risks, and attracts serious disciplinary measures. Safeguarding institutional information is an essential mark of loyalty, integrity, and professionalism.
It was noted that the Orientation and Onboarding exercise, though practiced in earlier years, was revitalized under the administration of Dr. Mrs. Basilia Igbokwe, ably supported by the Registrar, Mr. Ugochukwu Stanley Njoku. This edition featured a three-day extensive workshop and seminar with holistic topics delivered by seasoned resource persons from the Registry Division and other distinguished academics in the institution.
The primary objective was to shape the mindset of new staff and position them to understand the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of a federal establishment, including Acts, regulations, and rules governing service, all carefully simplified for proper comprehension.
Since her inception, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Igbokwe has ushered in a new era in recruitment and placement at Federal Polytechnic Nekede, introducing strategic measures that build staff capacity and strengthen the institution’s contribution to the educational sector at large.
Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters
August 17, 2025
