By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
The Rector, alongside members of the Governing Council and Principal Officers of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, on Thursday 23rd April, 2026 undertook an extensive facility tour of the Abaezi Egbema Campus, reaffirming the institution’s strategic commitment to expansion and the imminent commencement of academic activities at the site.
The inspection covered critical infrastructure, including male and female hostels, large classrooms with state of the arts student’s desks and staff offices, ICT building with six classrooms, staff offices, ICT comfortable tables, Studios and workshops, Cafeteria, Administrative blocks, Conference hall, Medical Centre, Sporting arena, Staff quarters and other essential facilities. The exercise provided an opportunity for leadership to assess the level of preparedness of the campus and identify key areas requiring attention ahead of full academic take-off.
A major highlight of the visit was the formal reception by the host community, Umuokemiri Obuoguma Kindred, principal landlords of the Abaezi Egbema land, who warmly welcomed the Polytechnic’s leadership and expressed optimism about the transformative impact of the institution on the area.
The community, while pledging sustained cooperation and a peaceful working relationship, drew attention to longstanding historical concerns surrounding the land. They noted that the expanse had been acquired as far back as 1962 under a “gentleman agreement” during its use by Catholic missions in the old Port Harcourt Province, an agreement they described as yet to be fully honoured. Despite this, they reaffirmed their commitment to partnership, urging the institution and relevant authorities to consider their interests in line with the Nigerian Local Content Law (2010), particularly in employment opportunities, admissions, contracts, and provision of basic social amenities such as electricity, potable water, and access roads.
They emphasized that addressing these concerns would strengthen the existing social contract and foster deeper trust between the institution and its host community.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the campus location, the community noted its proximity to several neighbouring areas including Oguta, Ogba (Omoku), Ndoni, Ohaji, Egi, and Ahoada, positioning it as a potential hub for diverse student populations. They also assured the Polytechnic of adequate security support and intelligence gathering to safeguard lives and property within and around the campus.
The community further appealed for inclusion in recent and future employment opportunities within the institution, stressing their status as critical stakeholders and integral partners in the project’s success.
Special recognition was given to Rt. Hon. Goodluck Nanah Opiah, former Minister of Education for his sustained contributions toward the realization of the campus, which the community described as a landmark achievement with far-reaching benefits for present and future generations.
Speaking during the tour, the Rector, Dr. Mrs Basillia Nkemdilim Igbokwe emphasized that the visit was geared toward facilitating the smooth commencement of academic operations. She underscored the importance of a secure and enabling learning environment and called on the host community to support the installation of adequate lighting infrastructure within and around the campus.
The Rector also reiterated her administration’s commitment to sustained engagement with the Federal Government to ensure the prompt release of take-off funds necessary for the activation and continued development of the campus. She assured stakeholders that management remains proactive and focused on meeting all requirements for a successful launch.
At the tour, the Polytechnic 15th Governing Council Chairman, Chief Henry Ikechukwu Ikoh was ably represented by Hon. Mrs Favour Asogwa and Council full support to ensure smooth take off of the campus was assured.
The presence of all Principal Officers during the tour further demonstrated a unified leadership approach toward the realization of the Abaezi Egbema Campus project, reinforcing the Polytechnic’s dedication to collaboration, inclusiveness, and long-term institutional growth.
With continued support from government and the host community, Federal Polytechnic Nekede remains confident that the Abaezi Egbema Campus will soon commence academic activities and evolve into a vibrant centre for learning, research, and socio-economic development.
