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Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to revitalising Nigeria’s polytechnic education system. He noted that the calibre of individuals appointed to lead these institutions demonstrates the government’s commitment to meaningful educational reforms.
Speaking in Calabar on Tuesday while hosting the Senator Barnabas Gemade-led Committee of Chairmen of Governing Councils of Federal Polytechnics, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms would enhance technical education and equip Nigerian youth with essential skills for national development.
“I want to commend Mr. President for recognising 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,” Otu said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to technical education and skills development, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader vision for polytechnic reforms. He highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts in education, particularly in Akamkpa and other key areas, and called for similar initiatives nationwide.
“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, the Chairman of the Committee of Chairmen of Governing Councils of Federal Polytechnics, Senator Gemade, praised the leadership of Cross River State and described the retreat as a strategic step toward 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,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of technical education in driving economic growth, stressing that no country can develop without a well-equipped and 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 stated.
Senator 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 industrialisation, skills development, and infrastructural improvements across polytechnics to ensure 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,” he said.
The visit underscores Cross River State’s growing role as a centre for national educational reforms, particularly in technical and vocational training. Governor Otu’s administration remains committed to expanding opportunities for technical education, ensuring that young Nigerians acquire the skills necessary for innovation and industrialisation.
