The Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, came alive with colour and celebration on April 10, 2025, as the institution hosted its 47th Matriculation Ceremony, formally ushering in thousands of newly admitted National Diploma (ND1) and Higher National Diploma (HND1) students for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The ceremony, held at the Polytechnic’s Mini Stadium, marked the first matriculation exercise under the leadership of the Rector, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, and the first to be held after a six-year break.
The return of the event was met with excitement and fanfare, as the campus transformed into a vibrant hub of festivity, reflecting the institution’s enduring spirit of excellence and progress.
The occasion featured a grand academic procession led by Dr. Igbokwe, joined by principal officers, deans, directors, heads of departments, and other senior officials. The Polytechnic’s choir, directed by Dr. A. C. Madu, delivered a moving performance that set a solemn yet hopeful tone for the ceremony.
Addressing the students, Dr. Igbokwe congratulated the matriculants on gaining admission and encouraged them to uphold academic excellence and discipline. She reminded them of the institution’s expectations, stating, “You will become ambassadors of this great institution upon graduation,” and assured them of the Polytechnic’s commitment to their success.
“We have created an environment conducive to learning, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, highly trained staff, and a dedicated management team to ensure you thrive,” she added.
The Rector also celebrated a recent academic milestone, announcing that two books authored by Engr. Dr. Sylvester Adikwanduaba—on Engineering and Foundry—have been approved by the Federal Ministry of Education for use in tertiary institutions across the country.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of scholarships to twenty deserving students, including those living with disabilities, the first student to pay tuition for the session, and female students excelling in male-dominated disciplines.
The gesture, sponsored by the Rector and other well-meaning individuals, underscored the institution’s dedication to inclusivity, empowerment, and academic encouragement.
The audience erupted in applause when Dr. Igbokwe announced that the Federal Polytechnic Nekede football team had advanced to the final of the NIPOGA tournament, currently taking place at Federal Polytechnic Offa in Kwara State.
Established in 1978 as the College of Technology, Owerri, Federal Polytechnic Nekede has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading technical institutions. With eight schools offering a variety of programs and a growing alumni network contributing to national development, the Polytechnic recently added to its achievements with the approval of a new HND program in Pharmaceutical Technology by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
