The Yobe State Organised Trades Union Association has honoured the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Dr Ibrahim Bello Bashir, with an Award of Recognition as the institution's most community-friendly Rector since its establishment.

In his opening remarks, the Secretary of the Association, Mu'azu Bawa, described the award as well deserved and timely.

He said the Rector's inclusive leadership style and cordial relationship with members of the community had earned him widespread respect and recognition.

Speaking on the history of the association, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mallam Umar Gashua, said the association comprises 83 trade organisations and is officially recognised by the Yobe State Government.

He noted that the association has continued to promote the welfare and development of artisans and skilled workers across the state.

Presenting the award, the Chairman of the Organised Trades Union Association, popularly known as Kungiyar Hadaka, Lawan Ali, said the honour was in recognition of the Rector's commitment to promoting a friendly and supportive environment for artisans and the wider community, particularly his efforts to facilitate the certification of their trades through the Polytechnic.

Responding, Dr Ibrahim Bello Bashir expressed appreciation to the association for the recognition.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing skills acquisition and vocational education to meet the developmental needs of Yobe State.

The Rector added that the Polytechnic plans to introduce additional trade programmes, including Hospitality Management and Fashion Design, to expand opportunities for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Deputy Rector (Administration), Dr Lawan Cheri, and the Director of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre, Ayuba Darki, commended the association for recognising the Rector's efforts, noting that the honour is also a recognition of the achievements of the Polytechnic as a whole.

They reaffirmed their support for the Rector's vision of strengthening skills development and providing certification opportunities for members of the association in various trades through the Polytechnic.

Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Registrar, Mu'azu Aliyu Iliyasu, the Deputy Registrar (Council and General Administration), Adamu Adamu, said the Rector remains committed to the development of the institution and urged him to continue providing purposeful leadership.

He described the award as a testament to the Rector's dedication, commitment and impactful leadership in advancing skill development.

Muhd Nura Nguru

Head,Information and Protocol