The Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District and former Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, has awarded scholarships to students and donated a bus to the Federal Polytechnic, Nyak, as the institution held its third matriculation ceremony.
Speaking at the Matriculation held at the institution’s permanent site in Nyak, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State, Lalong expressed satisfaction with the rapid progress recorded by the polytechnic within a short period of its establishment.
He noted that the institution’s steady growth had begun to silence critics who were initially sceptical about its viability, adding that the increasing influx of students from within and outside the state was a testament to its rising profile.
“The school is gradually positioning itself as a hub for knowledge and empowerment of the younger generation,” he said.
Lalong recalled his efforts while in office to establish educational institutions and attract federal government presence to Plateau State, stressing that such initiatives have continued to yield positive outcomes for the people.
He commended both staff and students for their commitment to the growth of the institution and announced scholarships for all students from the Plateau South Senatorial District.
He also assured that a solar power grid project he facilitated would soon be installed, alongside plans to connect the institution to a water supply scheme from Shendam in collaboration with the state government.
The senator further lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that it has eased access to funding for students across the country.
In his remarks, the Acting Rector of the polytechnic, Ojo Kayode Abayomi, described the matriculation as a significant milestone, highlighting the institution’s remarkable growth trajectory.
According to him, the student population has risen from just over 20 at inception to 337 within two years.
He commended Lalong for his consistent support, particularly in providing critical infrastructure such as access roads, electricity, and water, which have enhanced the learning environment.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Governing Council appreciated Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for approving the use of facilities under the Lalong Legacy Projects in Shendam and Nyak for the institution’s take-off.
The council chairman urged the newly admitted students to remain focused on their studies, stressing that the knowledge and skills they acquire would be vital to national development.
The highlight of the event was the formal admission of new students into the institution, after which Lalong inspected the ongoing construction of access roads within the polytechnic, facilitated under his constituency projects.
