Chairman of the Committee of Chairmen of Governing Councils of Federal Polytechnics of Nigeria, Senator Barnabas Gemade (4th from L front row), Deputy Governor, CRS; Rt Hon. Peter Odey (5th from L front row) and others during the visit on Monday.
By Anietie Akpan
Governor Bassey Otu has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s polytechnic education system, saying it will provide essential skills for national development.
He emphasized that the caliber of individuals appointed to lead these institutions reflects the government’s seriousness about meaningful reform.
Speaking on Monday while hosting the Senator Barnabas Gemade-led Committee of Chairmen of Governing Councils of Federal Polytechnics of Nigeria, Governor Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, expressed optimism that the reforms would enhance technical education and equip Nigerian youth with essential skills for national development.
“I want to commend Mr. President for recognizing the importance of the polytechnic system and for being intentional about its development. The appointments he has made show his commitment to turning things around. We hope this new direction will ensure that sufficient funding is provided to upgrade facilities and equip students with the technical skills they need,” he stated.
Governor Otu also reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to technical education and skills development, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader vision for polytechnic reforms across Nigeria.
He highlighted Cross River State’s ongoing efforts in the education sector, particularly in Akamkpa and other key areas, stressing the need for nationwide replication of such initiatives.
“We are ensuring that technical education thrives in Cross River State, and we hope these reforms will be implemented nationwide to benefit millions of young Nigerians,” he added.
In his remarks, Senator Gemade lauded the hospitality and progressive leadership of Cross River State, describing the retreat as a strategic step towards achieving technical education reforms.
“Mr. Governor, we are here today with a team of distinguished Nigerians, carefully selected by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to lead the Governing Councils of Federal Polytechnics. It is a pleasure to be in Cross River, a state known for its beauty, warm people, and visionary leadership under my dear friend, Prince Bassey Otu,” Gemade stated.
He emphasized the critical role of technical education in driving economic growth, stressing that no country can advance without a well-equipped, technically skilled workforce.
According to Gemade, the Federal Government has demonstrated its commitment by appointing experienced and highly qualified individuals—including former senators, governors, professors, and technocrats—to spearhead the necessary reforms.
“This initiative is not just about experienced leadership; it also includes young, innovative minds who will help reshape the future of technical education in Nigeria. The goal of this four-day retreat is to brainstorm, identify key challenges facing polytechnics, and develop practical solutions that will guide Mr. President in achieving his vision for the sector,” he explained.
Gemade disclosed that the committee’s deliberations would culminate in a strategic communiqué, outlining policy recommendations for the Federal Government. These proposals will focus on industrialization, skills development, and infrastructural improvements across polytechnics, ensuring that technical education plays a key role in Nigeria’s economic transformation.
“Our mission is clear: to ensure that Nigeria’s technical education sector is adequately reformed and positioned for industrial growth. We appreciate the opportunity to hold our retreat in Calabar and look forward to leaving with not only fond memories of this beautiful city but also a deeper understanding of the progress being made under this administration,” Gemade concluded.
The visit reinforced the State’s emerging role as a centre for national educational reforms, particularly in technical and vocational training and Governor Otu’s administration remains committed to expanding opportunities for technical education, ensuring that young Nigerians acquire the skills necessary for innovation and industrialization.
The well-attended event featured notable figures, including Treasurer of the Committee, Senator (Dame) Princess Florence Ita-Giwa; Secretary to the State Government; Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; members of the State Executive Council; and the Secretary of the Committee; Engr. Tamaya; among others.
