Federal Polytechnic Ukana has forged a strategic collaboration with the authorities of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Council to deepen and expand skill acquisition opportunities, as the institution intensifies its commitment to community empowerment and vocational transformation.
The deal was struck during a familiarization visit by the Rector, Mrs. Eduma Enobong Essien, to the Executive Chairman of Ikot Ekpene LGA, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
The visit was aimed at acquainting the Chairman with the Polytechnic’s expanded mandate and informing him that the institution has advanced beyond traditional academics to embrace a broader skills-driven developmental mission.
Accompanied by her management team, Mrs. Essien expressed profound gratitude for the Chairman’s gracious reception, affirming that leadership is most effective when it is collaborative.
“I did not come alone; I came with my management team because every achievement in Federal Polytechnic Ukana is the product of a united vision,” she stated.
The Rector meticulously enumerated the institution’s capacity, highlighting its 14 robust skills development programmes, each fortified by Federal Government support and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
“We are not merely an academic institution; we are an engine of transformation and a fulcrum of societal advancement,” she emphasized.
She expressed concern that many locals remain oblivious to the enormous reservoir of opportunities within their reach,
“It is regrettable that individuals from distant regions are capitalizing on these programmes while our own people remain unaware. This partnership is part of our deliberate effort to enlighten and sensitize the Ikot Ekpene people.”
Mrs. Essien asserted that the Polytechnic is primed for full-scale production and practical training, reaffirming its readiness to absorb trainees from Ikot Ekpene in large numbers. She further revealed that the institution’s Career and Talent Development Unit is actively scouting for gifted individuals, ensuring that innate potential does not go unnoticed.
“We solicit deepened cooperation from the local government so that our people can benefit maximally from this developmental renaissance,” she appealed.
In his response, Hon. Nkom expressed deep admiration for the Rector’s vision and the Polytechnic’s remarkable progress.
“I am highly impressed by what you have done at Federal Polytechnic Ukana. Your commitment to expanding skill acquisition opportunities is commendable,” he said.
He pledged the full support of his administration, affirming his readiness to collaborate fully to empower the people of Ikot Ekpene.
“All I desire for our people is relevant, globally recognized skills. Now that such facilities are available right here at Federal Polytechnic Ukana, we will partner with you to ensure Ikot Ekpene people benefit,” he assured.
The Council boss added that it would be counterproductive to ignore the opportunities available within their locality.
“We can not have an institution of this magnitude close to us and still allow our people to lag behind,” he stated.
He concluded with a powerful reminder: “After God, education is the next most transformative force. It shapes destinies and liberates minds. We must ensure our people are not left behind when such an institution stands at our doorstep.”
The encounter culminated in mutual assurances of cooperation, signalling the dawn of a historic skills revolution poised to uplift Ikot Ekpene and cement Federal Polytechnic Ukana as a beacon of socioeconomic transformation.
Present during the visit were the Bursar of the polytechnic,Dr. Emmanuel Esomonu, the Polytechnic Librarian,Mr.
Ehikioya Akhidenor Uduebor among others.
