November 10, (THEWILL) – The Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Owerri, erupted in celebration on September 10, 2024, as Dr. (Mrs) Basilia Igbokwe assumed office as the institution’s 9th substantive Rector.
Hailing from Orsu-Ihitteukwa in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, Dr. Igbokwe, a former Head of Department for Mass Communication, brings a blend of integrity, leadership, and dedication to the Polytechnic.
She joins an elite group of women who have led higher institutions in Nigeria, following in the footsteps of pioneering figures like Prof. Grace Alele Williams, who made history as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin in 1985.
Her appointment letter, Ref: PRES/84/EDU/7, issued on September 10 by the Federal Ministry of Education and signed by Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, has sparked waves of jubilation throughout the Polytechnic community.
She is highly qualified, holding a Ph.D. and M.A. in English Language from the University of Uyo, alongside a B.A. in English from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Teachers Institute (NTI), affiliated with Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto.
A dynamic leader, Igbokwe has previously held numerous pivotal roles within the institution, including Deputy Director of the Directorate of Monitoring & Evaluation, Deputy Director of the Industrial Placement Centre, and Director of the Welfare and Social Responsibility Directorate.
She has chaired the Local Organising Committee for the Forum for Women Educationists Nigeria Conference, among other significant posts.
Beyond Nekede, Dr. Igbokwe has been active in several roles, including as South-East Coordinator for the Reading Association of Nigeria, Facilitator at the National Open University of Nigeria, and External Examiner for institutions such as Covenant Polytechnic and Abia State Polytechnic.
Renowned for her humility and accessibility, she has fostered an environment of academic excellence, supporting faculty and students alike in their pursuit of knowledge and professional growth.
Her leadership is set to bring an era of enhanced dignity of labor, peace, infrastructural development, and skill acquisition to the institution. As Proverbs 21: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.” Her appointment indeed reflects this sentiment within the Polytechnic.
Dr. Igbokwe’s tenure promises a renewed commitment to growth, collaborative partnerships, and inclusive progress for Federal Polytechnic, Nekede.
She stands as a leader with a track record of excellence, and the Polytechnic community is encouraged to rally behind her transformative vision.
May her tenure bring lasting progress to this great institution.
