Benue State Polytechnic Governing Council Begins Tenure with Comprehensive Review

The Chairman and members of the Governing Council of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, assumed their duties today with a significant inaugural meeting held at the institution. Dr. Damian Anyam, the newly appointed Chairman, expressed his gratitude to God and the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for the trust placed in the Council.

Dr. Anyam emphasized that the Council recognizes the importance of their roles and pledged to work diligently within legal boundaries to address the institution's challenges. He highlighted the institution's history, noting its establishment in 1976 in Makurdi before being relocated to Ugbokolo due to political reasons. He urged members to set aside ethnic considerations and focus on the unity of Benue State.

The Chairman outlined the Council's primary assignments, which include:

- Investigating Tetfund contract approvals from 2016 to 2023.

- Reviewing Tetfund-supplied machines and equipment.

- Examining the security situation at the institution to enhance performance.

- Assessing the list of casual staff for potential pensionable appointments.

- Investigating the theft of 200 computers supplied during the review period.

- Checking records of furniture supplied by Tetfund.

- Reviewing records of physical infrastructure to ensure due process was followed.

Dr. Anyam also mentioned that the Central Bank of Nigeria, through Tetfund, had released funds for the purchase of laptops for academic staff, and the Council expects the management to provide relevant records. He highlighted concerns about the ALGON hall, which has become a safety hazard, and promised a visit to assess the situation.

In his response, a Council member praised the Governor's dedication to state development and assured full support for advancing the Polytechnic and the state.

Earlier in the day, Acting Rector Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Barki welcomed the Council members and congratulated them on their appointments. He presented a detailed 13-point synopsis covering the institution's challenges, problems, and prospects.

Following the meeting, the Council members conducted an inspection of various facilities, including the Department of Mass Communication, ALGON hall, staff quarters, the Polytechnic Clinic, and the Estate department. They expressed dissatisfaction with the deplorable condition of the structures and equipment.

Written by:  

Director, Media Services,  

Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo