Federal Polytechnic Ayede Appoints New Principal Officers After Competitive Selection, Council Defends Transparent Process

The Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Ogbomoso, has announced the appointment of new Principal Officers in what it describes as a transparent and merit-driven process, reinforcing confidence in leadership selection within Nigeria’s higher education system.

The development marks a significant administrative transition for the institution, as the Council moved swiftly to ensure continuity in governance and academic operations. The appointments include Dr. Azeez Olasunkanmi Ojo as Acting Rector, Mrs. Bukola Elizabeth Dairo as Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mr. Oluseyi Abiola Afolabi as Bursar, and Mr. Dare Samuel Adeleke as Acting Polytechnic Librarian.

According to the Council, the selection exercise strictly followed the provisions of the Polytechnic Act as well as guidelines set by the Federal Character Commission, ensuring fairness, equity, and national representation.

The process attracted massive interest from across the country, with over 104 qualified applicants competing for the top positions. Speaking on behalf of the Council Chairman, Hon. Yakubu Dati, the Acting Director of the Centre for Information, Communication and Public Relations, Mr. Sunday Adepoju, described the exercise as thorough and highly competitive.

He revealed that candidates underwent a rigorous screening process, including detailed application reviews, structured interviews, and computer-based examinations designed to identify the most capable individuals for each role.

The Council also emphasized its commitment to federal character principles, noting that the final appointments reflect balanced representation, with key officers emerging from different states, including Ogun and Oyo.

Beyond qualifications, the Council considered the ability of candidates to attract private sector investment as part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on government funding and position the Polytechnic for long-term sustainability.

Addressing public concerns over the appointment of candidates with backgrounds from the university system, the Council dismissed such criticisms as unfounded. It highlighted that cross-movement between institutions is a long-standing practice in Nigeria’s education sector, driven by competence and experience rather than institutional origin.

To support this position, the Council cited multiple precedents where professionals have successfully transitioned across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, contributing meaningfully to their new institutions.

The Council further assured stakeholders that the integrity of the selection process remains intact despite differing opinions, stressing that the exercise was conducted with the highest standards of accountability.

In line with statutory requirements, the Council has already forwarded nominations to the President for the appointment of a substantive Rector, while the Acting Rector has assumed duties to prevent any leadership vacuum.

Reaffirming its confidence in the newly appointed officers, the Council pledged continued adherence to transparency, excellence, and due process, signaling a new phase of growth and institutional stability for Federal Polytechnic Ayede.