Stakeholders of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, have urged the institution's governing council to ensure a transparent and fair process in the appointment of a new rector. This call comes as the polytechnic prepares for the interview and appointment of a new rector.

The stakeholders, comprising alumni, staff, and students, emphasized the need for the council to uphold the provisions of the Polytechnic requirements in selecting a suitable candidate for the position. They argued that a transparent process would boost confidence in the institution and ensure the best candidate emerges as the next rector.

They are alarmed by the shortlisting of Acting Rector, Dr. Hauwa T. Muhammad, for the substantive Rector position, despite her lack of a key and fundamental academic requirement to fit in the position. They urge the Governing Council to remain neutral and adhere to the Polytechnic requirements, warning against any attempts to violate due process and compromise the institution’s stability.

The Organizing Secretary of the stakeholders Samuel Audi, emphasized the importance of upholding the law to ensure transparency and peace in the institution. “The Polytechnic Act is clear: candidates must meet specific requirements, including a Doctorate Degree in a discipline offered at the institution. We therefore, urge the council to respect this requirement and avoid giving in to pressure from external body with selfish interests.”

Stressing that "We want to see a rector who has the interest of the polytechnic at heart, and who can take the institution to the next level," said a stakeholder. "The council must ensure that the process is merit-based and free from external influence."

The polytechnic's governing council has been advised to consider candidates with a proven track record of academic and administrative excellence. The stakeholders also urged the council to engage with the polytechnic community throughout the appointment process.

As the interview and appointment of a new rector are expected to take place within the next two weeks, and the stakeholders' call for transparency has added to the anticipation surrounding the process. The Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, is a leading tertiary institution in Nigeria, and the appointment of a new rector is seen as crucial to its continued growth and development.

Audi argued that Dr.

Muhammad’s diplomas are not offered in the Polytechnic Sector, disqualifying her from the position. “Her discipline, English Language, is not a core discipline in the Polytechnic Sector. This disqualifies her from being appointed as Rector in any Polytechnic that respects established laws.”

The stakeholders also pointed out that the Polytechnic requirements clearly states that candidates must have a minimum of a second-class lower division degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) with lower credit in a discipline offered in the Polytechnic Sector. “Dr. Muhammad’s qualifications do not meet this requirement,” Audi said.

Furthermore, the stakeholders expressed concern that violating the Polytechnic Act would undermine the institution’s credibility and stability. “We remind the council that the Polytechnic requirements is in place to ensure transparency and fairness. Violating it would have far-reaching consequences for the institution’s future.”

The stakeholders commend the federal government for appointing a carefully selected council members with track records and pray for a divine guidance in their decision-making. They also call on the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, and the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Bugaje, to support the council in upholding the law and ensuring a transparent process.

“We urge the council to prioritize the institution’s interests and make a decision that will bring enduring peace and stability,” Audi said. “The future of Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa depends on it.”.