A bill seeking to amend the Federal Polytechnic Act on Tuesday scaled its second reading in the House of Representatives.
The proposed legislation, co-sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Lagos lawmaker Fuad Laguda, aims to modify the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap 17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, to introduce additional functions for polytechnics in Nigeria.
Leading the debate during plenary, Laguda emphasised the need for the amendment, citing the expanding scope and role of polytechnic education in the country.
He explained, “The Principal Act, Federal Polytechnics Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, was enacted to establish polytechnics across the country, providing full-time courses in technology, applied sciences, management, and other fields. In 2019, the Act was amended to increase the retirement age of polytechnic staff and harmonize the tenure of rectors and other principal officers.
“This bill seeks to further amend the Act to align with the demands of a rapidly evolving world while adhering to international best practices. It aims to expand the membership of the polytechnic governing councils to include representatives from technical institutions like the National Board for Technical Education and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. Additionally, it will broaden the functions of federal polytechnics and establish a clearer, more result-oriented administrative structure.”
Urging his colleagues to support the bill, Laguda stated that its ultimate goal is to enhance technical education for Nigerian students by strengthening the polytechnic system.
Following the debate, Abbas, who presided over the session, put the bill to a voice vote.
After its adoption, it was referred to the Committee on Polytechnic and Higher Technical Education for further legislative action.
