Federal Polytechnic Oko Celebrates Rector, Dr. Chioma Awuzie, In Surprise Birthday Tribute

The Federal Polytechnic, Oko community has celebrated its Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, in a remarkable display of love and appreciation with a surprise birthday celebration in her honour.

The celebration took place during the July monthly prayer session and brought together the Governing Council, Principal Officers, members of the Management Team, Deans, Directors, staff, students and friends of the institution.

As Dr. Awuzie arrived at the venue, she was met with an atmosphere far removed from the routine gathering she had anticipated. The surprise was revealed as members of the Polytechnic community erupted in cheers, songs, applause and birthday greetings in celebration of their Rector.

Beyond the music, gifts, prayers and goodwill messages, the event was a collective expression of appreciation for the progress being recorded in the institution under Dr. Awuzie's leadership. Members of the Polytechnic family spoke warmly of her vision, humility, dedication and commitment to building an institution defined by excellence, innovation and meaningful development.

Messages of goodwill and prayers were offered for the Rector. The celebrants asked God to grant her continued wisdom, strength, sound health and abundant grace as she leads Federal Polytechnic, Oko towards greater achievements.

In his birthday message, the Head, Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Ben Obioha, described the Rector as a people-oriented leader with exceptional administrative qualities. 

Dr. Obioha said Dr. Chioma Awuzie's unwavering commitment to the welfare and development of the Federal Polytechnic Oko distinguishes her administration, noting that her leadership style reflects compassion, accessibility, and dedication to good governance. 

He wished the Rector continued wisdom, good health, and strength, and urged upcoming leaders to understudy her leadership style.

In separate remarks, the Branch Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, ASUP, Barr. Fidelis Odua; NASU Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Okolie; and Secretary, Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics, Comrade Ben Agudosi, described the Rector as a doyen of administration whose achievements in office reflect a strong passion for public service.

Others who congratulated the Rector included the President, Students Union Government, Giant Comrade Anuluonye Ifechukwu Joseph, and the representative of the 2026 employees of the institution, Emeka Chioma Marietha, among others.

Expressing appreciation, Dr. Awuzie thanked the Governing Council, Management, staff, students and friends of the Polytechnic for the demonstration of love and solidarity. She reaffirmed her determination to continue working with all stakeholders in advancing the collective vision and aspirations of the institution.

The event ended with the cutting of the birthday cake, photographs and shared moments of joy, leaving a reminder that beyond its academic and administrative structures, Federal Polytechnic, Oko is also a family bound together by shared aspirations and commitment to progress.