In what has been described as a watershed moment in the history of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri Alumni Association, the newly harmonized Executive Council (EXCOs) was formally presented to the Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, and the Management Team of the institution.
The event, held on Friday, 22nd August 2025 at the Rector’s office, signaled the dawn of a new era of unity, progress, and renewed commitment by the Alumni body. For the first time in recent history, all existing factions within the Alumni Association collapsed into one formidable force, pledging to work together in harmony for the advancement of their alma mater.
According to a press release signed by Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah, Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters, the presentation ceremony was spearheaded by Dr. Ben Iheakam, Council Representative and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT), alongside the BOT Secretary, Chief Iyk Nnadoro. Both leaders reaffirmed the determination of the Alumni to rally behind the Rector’s visionary administration.
The harmonized EXCOs presented were: Barr. Emma Okoro (PhD), President; Dr. Steve Okparaugo, Vice President; Chief KC Oranekwu, Treasurer; Comrade SK Nwaejie, Public Relations Officer (PRO); Surv. Ubah E. Emmanuel, Assistant Secretary; Dr. Chibuisi Onyebueke, Mobilization Officer I; and Engr. Obiyor Ugochukwu, Mobilization Officer II.
Speaking at the occasion, Chief Nnadoro commended Dr. Igbokwe’s leadership style and assured that the new EXCOs are credible hands ready to work in synergy with the institution’s leadership.
He described the harmonization as a landmark breakthrough that would reposition the Alumni for greater exploits. On his part, the President of the Association, Barr. Emma Okoro, delivered a moving address in which he pledged his administration’s readiness to rebuild the Alumni body into a respected and vibrant force.
Highlighting his background as a lawyer, Rotarian, and holder of a Doctorate in Law, Barr. Okoro vowed to change the narrative of the Association through transparency, unity, and purposeful engagement. He promised regular reunions, impactful homecomings, and visible projects that would contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Polytechnic.
In a bold step towards accountability, the Alumni President also announced the constitution of a committee to investigate past petitions on fund mismanagement, stressing that integrity will be the watchword of his leadership.
He concluded with a firm affirmation: “We have come to stay, and nothing will stop us. Together, we will restore the glory of our Alumni Association and make Federal Polytechnic Nekede proud.”
In her response, the Rector, Dr. Basilia Igbokwe, warmly welcomed the harmonized EXCOs and congratulated them for burying their differences in the interest of progress.
She described the development as “a happy day and a new dawn for the Alumni body,” urging them to uphold unity, mutual respect, and close collaboration with the institution’s Management.
Dr. Igbokwe further advised that all Alumni projects should be closely aligned with the needs of the Polytechnic, emphasizing that true impact comes from partnership and shared vision. With her characteristic motherly candor, she formally inaugurated the new EXCOs, charging them to remain united and focused on building a stronger legacy.
The presentation ended with a symbolic group photograph, capturing the renewed spirit of harmony and optimism. With this development, the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Alumni Association has repositioned itself to play a central role in the growth and global visibility of the institution. This historic harmonization marks the beginning of a future driven by unity, purpose, and excellence.
