The newly appointed Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Mrs. Eduma Essien, has called for unity among the staff and management of the institution, urging them to set aside past grievances and work towards the progress of the school.
Speaking on Friday after a brief handover ceremony at the institution’s main campus in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Essien emphasized that internal conflicts and acrimony would only hinder development.
“Let us put aside all bickerings, the bring-you-down syndrome, and the fighting. It takes us nowhere, and we can’t continue to live like that,” she said.
Essien, the first female Rector of the 14-year-old institution, acknowledged the tensions surrounding her appointment but stressed that she would not inherit past disputes. She called for a mindset reorientation among staff to foster a more harmonious work environment.
“If you are always thinking of evil about your fellow staff or the institution, please give yourself a reorientation. This administration is going to be an inclusive one. I will not inherit your bitterness because I don’t have the heart to store it. My heart is a heart of love.”
Commitment to Fairness and Institutional Guidelines
Reiterating her commitment to fairness, Essien assured staff that the institution would operate strictly within its rules and regulations to ensure justice and accountability.
“The system is guided by rules and regulations, and we will ensure that these are applied in our daily administration. No one will be punished unjustly, and you will not be denied what is rightfully yours,” she stated.
She also expressed appreciation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his continued support for the institution and encouraged staff to work diligently to attract further assistance.
Support from Former Acting Rector and Host Community
Earlier, the former Acting Rector, Dr. Maurice Udom, thanked the staff and management for their cooperation during his tenure. He urged them to extend the same support to Essien to ensure her administration’s success.
The Ukana host community also welcomed the new rector with a reception ceremony, expressing confidence that her leadership would bring positive change.
Speaking at the event, community leader and former Essien Udim Council chairman, Vincent Udofia, described Essien’s appointment as a blessing to the institution and the community.
“We know quite well that your coming is God-sent. It’s going to be a blessing to this community, and we are sure that a lot of things will change,” Udofia said.
Essien’s appeal for peace and collaboration sets the tone for a new chapter in the institution’s administration, focusing on unity, inclusivity, and institutional development.
