Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana,Mrs. Eduma Enobong Essien, has been honoured by the Northern Youth Organisation of Nigeria with the prestigious Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna of Sokoto Integrity Legacy Platinum Leadership Award.
The award presentation, which also featured the conferment of a Medal of Honour as “Garkuwan Matasan Arewa / Icon and Cynosure of Educational Transformation,” took place at the Federal Polytechnic Ukana, where she was formally inducted into the organisation’s Hall of Fame. The recognition, according to the organisers, is in acknowledgment of her immense contributions to purposeful leadership and youth empowerment.
Presenting the award, the President of the organisation, Dr. Isah Ododo, commended the Rector for her commitment to advancing education and empowering young people across the country.
“We are proud to identify with a leader whose vision aligns with youth development. Her entrepreneurial initiatives—such as tissue paper production and paint manufacturing—are practical steps toward equipping Nigerian youths with self-reliant skills. She has shown a consistent readiness to embrace and impact the younger generation,” he said.
In her response, Mrs Essien expressed gratitude to the Northern youths for the honour and for travelling to the South-South region for the presentation.
“This recognition is deeply humbling. It will further inspire me to intensify efforts toward expanding access to quality education and strengthening entrepreneurial programmes that can transform the lives of our young people,” she stated.
The Rector dedicated the award to the hardworking staff of the institution, reaffirming her determination to positively impact the polytechnic and leave it better than she met it.
In a vote of thanks, the Registrar of the institution, Mr Idhigu Lucky, appreciated the Northern Youth Organisation for extending its recognition beyond regional boundaries. He stated that the management of the polytechnic remains proud of the Rector’s achievements and leadership strides.
The brief ceremony was witnessed by management staff of the polytechnic, including Dr Emmanuel Esomonu (Bursar), Mr Ehikioya Uduebor (Polytechnic Librarian), and the Secretary General of the Northern Youth Organisation of Nigeria, ESV Danjuma Bulus, among others.
