House Committee Warns Polytechnics Over Disregard for National Assembly Invitation
The House of Representatives Committee on Polytechnics and Other Higher Technical Education has issued a stern warning to five federal polytechnics that failed to honor its invitation to present their budget performance reports.
Honourable Fuad Laguda, Chairman of the Committee, expressed his disappointment on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, in Abuja, following the failed meeting. The institutions in question include Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State; Federal Polytechnic, Ohodo, Enugu State; Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State; Federal Polytechnic, Akanu Ibiam, Ebonyi State; and Federal Polytechnic, Isuochi, Abia State.
Laguda described the absence of representatives from these schools as an unprecedented and regrettable act of noncompliance. “This is the first time we have witnessed such behavior from any polytechnic in Nigeria,” he stated, emphasizing that the committee has consistently engaged with polytechnics across the nation, either through campus visits or meetings at the National Assembly.
Criticism of Noncompliance
The chairman specifically criticized the sole representative from Federal Polytechnic, Isuochi, for arriving unprepared and without supporting documents. “The meeting was scheduled for 12 o’clock, and after waiting for an hour and a half, the rector strolled in single-handedly, claiming to represent the institution, yet came completely unprepared,” Laguda said.
He warned that the committee would invoke relevant laws to address the situation, ensuring accountability and adherence to due process. Laguda stressed that institutions in other regions, including the North-West, South-West, North-Central, and North-East, had complied with similar invitations, making the South-East polytechnics’ disregard particularly concerning.
A Call for Enhanced Polytechnic Funding
The committee’s concerns extend beyond attendance issues. Discussions also highlighted the inadequate funding and recognition of polytechnic education in Nigeria. Honourable Laguda and other members emphasized the critical role of polytechnics in producing skilled manpower for technical and technological sectors.
Despite their importance, many polytechnics face significant challenges, such as outdated curricula, inadequate training facilities, and insufficiently qualified personnel. These shortcomings have contributed to skill gaps, particularly in industries like oil, gas, and maritime, which often rely on foreign expertise.
Urgent Need for Investment in Technical Education
The committee adopted a motion urging the Federal Ministry of Education to prioritize funding for federal polytechnics. Highlighting global examples, the motion noted that countries like China have converted hundreds of universities into polytechnics to strengthen their technical education systems.
Honourable Laguda emphasized that increasing investments in polytechnics would reduce Nigeria’s dependency on imports and foster technological development. “We must significantly increase our investment in polytechnic education to meet the evolving demands of the economy,” he said.
Committee’s Next Steps
The Committee on Legislative Compliance has been tasked with ensuring the implementation of these recommendations. Meanwhile, the five defaulting polytechnics are likely to face sanctions if they continue to disregard National Assembly invitations.
This incident underscores the need for a stronger commitment to accountability and the critical role of polytechnic education in driving Nigeria’s technological and economic growth.
RELATED: Reps Advances Bill to Reserve 74 Seats for Women in N. Assembly
