The Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Damaturu, Dr Ibrahim Bashir, has urged newly admitted students to embrace discipline, innovation and integrity for academic success.
Bashir, represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr Lawan Cheri gave the advice on Friday at the institution’s 29th Matriculation Ceremony for National Diploma (ND) I and Higher National Diploma (HND) I students in Damaturu.
He said the matriculation marked a significant milestone for the 2025/2026 academic session, describing the students as a cohort representing the future of Nigeria’s technical and professional excellence.
“You are part of a select group that has successfully navigated a rigorous admission process.
“This moment is more than a ceremony; it is an opportunity to redefine your personal path,” he said.
The rector described the polytechnic as a centre for academic excellence and character development, urging students to remain focused and uphold moral standards.
He said the management was committed to sustaining growth and innovation, while providing industry-based skills to enhance students’ capacity for self-reliance.
Bashir highlighted key achievements of the institution to include the completion of a road linking Sabon Pegi gate to students’ hostels to ease movement.
He added that construction of the School of Health Science Technology and Entrepreneurship Development Complex had been awarded and commended by the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).
The rector said the institution had also renovated its Mega Lecture Theatre and upgraded a 750-capacity hall to improve the learning environment.
He further disclosed that the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) re-accredited 36 programmes and approved 24 new ones for the institution.
“In some departments, you are the pioneer students, making your admission historic.
“This is a clear testament that our institution is growing tremendously,” he said.
Bashir said the polytechnic also secured a licence from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to operate a campus radio, FEDPODAM FM, on 92.5 frequency.
He urged students to be security conscious and avoid social vices such as cultism, examination malpractice, theft and violence.
The rector said the institution maintained a zero-tolerance policy against misconduct, urging students to study their information handbook diligently.
In his remarks, the Registrar, Alhaji Mu’azu Aliyu Iliyasu urged students to take the rector’s advice seriously and remain committed to their academic and personal development.
