The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has officially admitted the Federal Polytechnic, Orogun (FEPO), Delta State, into its national body — a major milestone that cements the institution’s rapid rise and deepening culture of participatory governance.
The admission was announced at the 18th National Delegates Conference (NDC) held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, in Jos, Plateau State, where FEPO—alongside five other chapters—graduated from a two-year observer status after fulfilling all statutory requirements, including payment of intent fees.
A total of 28 chapters were admitted nationwide: 11 in Zone A, 7 in Zone B, 4 in Zone C, and 6 in Zone D, which includes the College of Health Technology, Ofuoma; Federal Polytechnic Ohodo, Enugu State; Federal Polytechnic Ugep, Cross River State; and the International Institute of Tourism, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
“A Triumph for Harmony and Welfare” — Rector
Reacting to the development, FEPO’s Rector, Prof. Duke Okoro, described the admission as “a triumph for institutional harmony and an evidence of FEPO’s unwavering commitment to staff welfare and participatory governance.”
He reaffirmed the Polytechnic’s longstanding philosophy of collaboration with unions.
“At Federal Polytechnic Orogun, we have never seen unions as antagonists but as strategic allies. Our belief is simple: when management and unions work in synergy, the Polytechnic system flourishes,” he said.
Prof. Okoro added that the new status reflects FEPO’s culture of engagement and mutual respect.
“This recognition by ASUP is not just a union milestone — it is a reflection of the values we uphold. Staff welfare, open dialogue, and collective problem-solving remain the bedrock of our progress as an institution.”
“A New Dawn” — ASUP-FEPO Chairman
The pioneering Chairman of the ASUP-FEPO Chapter, Dr. John O. Atake, hailed the announcement as “a new dawn” for the institution.
“After two years on observer status, we are grateful to God, to Management who treat us as partners, and to our staff for their loyalty,” he said.
He confirmed that the chapter has now been cleared to conduct its maiden election in January 2026, an approval granted by the Zone D Coordinator, Dr. Richard Iloma.
Administrators Applaud the Milestone
FEPO’s Deputy Rector (Academic), Dr. Efetobor O. Elijah, described the union’s admission as “a strong institutional endorsement and an affirmation of FEPO’s administrative maturity.”
He added:
“This admission strengthens our collective resolve. It affirms that FEPO is growing in the right direction — guided by structure, discipline, and a deep respect for staff representation.”
The Registrar, Mrs. Christine Aluyi, noted that the development would deepen communication and administrative stability.
“A recognised union structure helps in strengthening institutional order. This milestone aligns with our principles of transparency, engagement, and accountability,” she said, commending the pioneering union leaders for their patience and professionalism.
The Polytechnic Librarian, Prof. Achugbue I. Edwin, also praised the development, calling it a driver of academic advancement.
“Unions play a critical role in enriching scholarship and enhancing professional development. Their full participation will strengthen FEPO’s intellectual climate,” he stated.
A Stronger Voice in Nigeria’s Polytechnic System
With its full admission into ASUP’s national framework, the Federal Polytechnic Orogun now becomes a voting member with full participation rights in national union deliberations — a shift expected to elevate staff representation, institutional synergy, and FEPO’s influence in national policy discussions.
Across campus, staff celebrated the milestone as a victory for collective aspiration, strengthened unionism, and FEPO’s growing profile as one of Nigeria’s most progressive, inclusive, and union-friendly polytechnics.
