The House Committee on Polytechnics and Other Higher Technical Education has urged federal polytechnics to develop expertise in utilizing Nigeria’s natural resources.
The committee’s chairman, Fuad Kayode Laguda (APC-Lagos), made this call during an oversight session with rectors from several federal polytechnics in Abuja.
Representatives from institutions including Federal Polytechnic Kauran-Namoda in Zamfara, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo in Gombe, and Federal Polytechnic Bali in Taraba were present. Mr. Laguda emphasized the need for these institutions to introduce specialized programs that prepare students to harness resources in their regions, creating opportunities and fostering local development.
Mr. Laguda specifically encouraged Jonathan Murdi, rector of Federal Polytechnic Kaura-Namoda in Zamfara, to consider adding courses in Geology, Mining, and related fields. He suggested that training students in these areas could lead to both youth empowerment and economic benefits, including revenue generation from resource testing.
“Offering courses in mining and geology would allow students to analyze local resources, like gold, within the institution, providing a new revenue stream,” Mr. Laguda said. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining high academic standards, asserting that “producing A-list graduates” will not only benefit society but also help attract more students to polytechnic education.
The committee hopes that, through practical and innovative programs, polytechnics will play a pivotal role in addressing regional challenges while driving economic growth across Nigeria.
