By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
In an era where harmonious industrial relations are the bedrock of academic excellence and institutional growth, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, continues to shine as a beacon of synergy, dialogue, and administrative distinction.
On Monday, August 10, 2026, the prestigious Council Chamber of the institution played host to a significant convergence of leadership and solidarity as the Executive Committee of the Imo State Council of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) paid a momentous courtesy visit to the 9th Substantive Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Mrs. Basillia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, alongside members of the institution’s top management.
The delegation, led by the Chairman of the Imo State Council of NASU, Comrade Cosmas C. Kuru included key state officials such as the State Secretary, Ms. Margaret Ezekiel, and the Chairman of the NASU Chapter at Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Comrade Kenneth Akagha.
A Quest Born out of Excellence and Mutual Trust
Speaking during the auspicious meeting, Comrade Cosmas C. Kuru expressed deep gratitude to the Rector and the Polytechnic Management for granting the delegation a prompt audience. Comrade Kuru formally acquainted the Management with the forthcoming 2026 NASU Day, scheduled to hold on September 10, 2026, and conveyed the Council’s enthusiastic request to host this year’s grand event within the serene and ultra-modern expanse of Federal Polytechnic Nekede.
Elaborating on the choice of venue, the State Chairman highlighted that while previous editions of the annual celebration were hosted by neighbouring tertiary institutions, the State Council unanimously found Federal Polytechnic Nekede most deserving to host the 2026 edition. He cited the institution’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, serene academic ambience, and above all, the robust, peaceful, and mutually respectful relationship existing between the Polytechnic Administration and the Union. Comrade Kuru assured the Management that the Union would strictly abide by all rules and regulations governing the institution throughout the duration of the event.
Adding voice to the submission, the Chairman of the local NASU chapter, Comrade Kenneth Akagha, commended the Management’s swift responsiveness to union affairs. He revealed that NASU Day is specifically designed as a flagship platform to celebrate Chief Executives of institutions where the Union operates, recognizing exceptional leadership, administrative vision, and staff welfare advocacy. Comrade Akagha proudly disclosed that the Rector, Dr. Mrs. Basillia Nkemdilim Igbokwe would be celebrated and honoured with a prestigious award during the ceremony while appealing for maximum management support to ensure a memorable outing.
Management Reaffirms Commitment to Partnership
Responding on behalf of the Rector, the Deputy Rector (Academic), *Dr. Obinna Iwueke* warmly welcomed the delegation and assured them that their request and goodwill message would be faithfully conveyed to the Chief Executive.
Dr. Iwueke underscored that under the present administration, Management has consistently prioritizing peaceful engagement, open communication, and cordiality with all staff unions on campus. Expressing absolute confidence in the Rector’s commitment to union welfare and institutional progress, he stated that Federal Polytechnic Nekede accepts the privilege of hosting the 2026 NASU Day with pride, assuring that the institution will set the pace in providing a world-class, befitting platform for the landmark gathering.
The Igbokwe Administration: Sustaining Cordiality for Collective Growth
The visit of the Imo State NASU Executive Council is yet another testament to the visionary leadership of Dr. Mrs. Basillia Nkemdilim Igbokwe. Since assuming office as the 9th Substantive Rector, Dr. Igbokwe has consistently demonstrated that peaceful industrial harmony is not an accident but a product of deliberate fairness, empathy, open-door policy, and shared purpose.
Her administration’s unwavering commitment to sustaining fellowship with all staff and student unions has transformed Federal Polytechnic Nekede into a peaceful, highly productive hub of academic and technological excellence. By fostering an atmosphere where dialogue supersedes confrontation and mutual respect reigns supreme, Dr. Mrs. Basillia Nkemdilim Igbokwe continues to pave a golden path for the collective growth, development, and global competitiveness of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri
