Akwa Ibom Poly Acting Rector Urges Responsible Social Media Use, Reaffirms Commitment to Student Welfare

The Acting Rector of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Dr. Akanimo Jonah, has issued a stern warning to students against the abuse of social media, urging them to use digital platforms responsibly for learning, engagement, and positive representation of the institution rather than as tools for misinformation, cyberbullying, or reputational harm.

Speaking on Monday, January 25, 2026, at the Polytechnic Library Conference Hall, Dr. Jonah emphasized management’s commitment to integrity, fairness, and accountability, stating that while constructive criticism is welcome, concerns must be channeled through official institutional platforms that enable dialogue, verification, and solution-oriented engagement.

“This is a new administration and the way of doing things must change totally. I am here to serve and will do so to the best of my abilities through God’s mercy and your collective support,” Dr. Jonah said.

The Acting Rector also outlined ongoing infrastructural projects aimed at improving teaching, learning, and student welfare, including the rehabilitation of classrooms, laboratories, hostels, and office spaces. He reassured students of the administration’s dedication to timely release of examination results, noting that delays can frustrate students and disrupt academic planning.

“Protect the image of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic. There is no need to always run to social media with complaints. My office is open, and I am student-friendly and committed to your success,” he added.

On campus discipline and safety, Dr. Jonah emphasized respect for institutional procedures, honesty, and responsible conduct online. He warned against spreading unverified information, inflammatory messages, or defamatory content, stressing the negative impact such acts have on both individuals and the Polytechnic’s reputation.

He further assured students that management is collaborating with internal security units and the School-to-School Peace Initiative (SPI) to enhance campus safety, affirming a zero-tolerance policy on victimization. Plans were also announced to equip select classrooms with solar-powered systems, renovate classrooms and laboratories, improve toilet facilities, and reintroduce suggestion boxes and structured feedback channels to allow students to voice concerns constructively.

In his address, the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Unyime Udoudo, urged students to reject vices such as cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice, and violence, reminding them that their primary purpose is to learn and prepare for the future.

The SUG President, Comr. Wisdom Udoimuk, representing the student body, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to peaceful engagement with management and encouraged students to channel grievances through official representatives.

During the interactive session, students raised issues including infrastructure, hygiene, and certificate collection. Management representatives addressed concerns, clarified misconceptions, and pledged to pursue practical and lasting solutions.

The event saw attendance from senior management, SUG and NIDSUG executives, and a broad representation of students, highlighting a shared commitment to constructive dialogue, institutional integrity, and the promotion of a safe and conducive academic environment.