From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, paid a historic courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, Igwe Chika Uchime, Diji III of Ufuma, alongside her management team and key stakeholders.
The visit, which marks the rector’s maiden engagement with the traditional leadership of Ufuma since her assumption of office over three months ago, was held at the royal palace with members of the Igwe’s cabinet present to warmly receive the polytechnic delegation.
Ufuma is home to one of the campuses of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, and the visit served as a reaffirmation of the institution’s commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship with the host community.
The atmosphere was festive and filled with cultural flair, as the Igwe and his cabinet offered a rich display of traditional hospitality to honour the rector and her entourage.
In a reciprocal show of appreciation, Dr. Awuzie presented gift items to the monarch, symbolizing respect and the institution’s appreciation for the support of the Ufuma community. The rector described the visit as a bridge-building initiative aimed at deepening collaboration between the institution and the community.
During the visit, the rector assured the Igwe, his cabinet, and the entire Ufuma community of her commitment to bringing more development and infrastructure to the Ufuma campus. However, she expressed concern over persistent security challenges, particularly the recurring theft and loss of equipment on campus.
In his response, the Igwe recommended that the inclusion of native Ufuma indigenes in the campus security structure would greatly enhance protection. He assured the rector of the community’s readiness to collaborate and offer full support to safeguard the institution’s assets and foster progress.
The visit reaffirmed a growing partnership built on mutual trust and shared development goals.
