The newly appointed Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Eduma Essien, has called on staff and management to set aside past conflicts and work towards the institution’s progress.
Speaking at a brief handover ceremony on Friday, Essien, the first female Rector of the 14-year-old institution, emphasized the need for reorientation and teamwork.
“I urge everyone to put aside all bickering and acrimony. The ‘bring-you-down’ syndrome only hinders progress. This administration will be inclusive, and I will not inherit past bitterness,” she said.
She assured that the institution would be governed by rules and regulations, ensuring fairness and justice for all staff members.
Essien also expressed gratitude to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his support of the polytechnic and encouraged staff to foster a positive environment to attract further development.
The outgoing Acting Rector, Dr. Maurice Udom, thanked the staff for their cooperation during his tenure and urged them to extend the same support to the new Rector.
Meanwhile, the Ukana host community welcomed Essien with a reception, expressing optimism about her leadership. Community leader Vincent Udofia described her appointment as “God-sent” and a blessing to the institution.
