The House of Representatives Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education on Tuesday pledged closer collaboration with the institutions to address longstanding challenges confronting the sector.

Speaking at the resumed budget defence of federal polytechnics in the country, chairman of the committee, Fuad Laguda described polytechnics as indispensable to Nigeria’s industrial and technological aspirations

Laguda acknowledged the contributions of the polytechnics to middle-level manpower development in the country which he said has remained critical to national growth.

stressed the need for sustained investment in the polytechnic system, stressing, “The country’s quest for technological advancement cannot be achieved without well-funded and properly equipped technical institutions.”

He said, “We are always partners in progress. Everything we do is to improve and make things work better.”

He urged the Committee of Federal Rectors to ensure that the few institutions yet to submit their budget documents do so without delay to facilitate effective legislative oversight.

The committee however approved the budget performance reports of federal polytechnics across the country.

However, the committee raised concerns over compliance lapses and staffing at the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN).

Laguda questioned the operational structure of the council, particularly the rationale behind managing eight regional offices with only 58 staff members, while seeking clarification on how the council sustains effective coordination and service delivery under such staffing limitations.

Responding, Adegbiji assured the committee of the council’s commitment and capacity to fulfil its constitutional mandate.

He emphasised that the CPN is empowered to regulate and accredit private organisations operating within the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.

The registrar further pledged to provide all requested documents within the stipulated timeframe, reaffirming the council’s readiness to cooperate fully with the committee in the interest of accountability and improved sectoral performance. (The Nation)

Update news