Nigeria vows zero tolerance for corruption in polytechnics, promoting transparency, innovation, and industry-ready skills under Alausa’s reforms

The Federal Government has declared an end to corruption and impunity in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, pledging strict enforcement of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership across the sector.

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Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, made the announcement on Wednesday in Abuja during a retreat for council chairmen, commissioners of education, rectors, registrars, and bursars, organised by the Conference of Heads of Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and similar institutions.

Speaking on the theme, “Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development,” Alausa stressed that financial recklessness, abuse of office, and unethical practices would no longer be tolerated.

“The era of impunity in our institutions is over. We demand fiscal discipline, timely audits and zero tolerance for corruption in order to build public trust and attract investment,” he said.

Alausa urged polytechnic leaders to prioritise innovation, entrepreneurship, research, and industry partnerships, with a focus on renewable energy, agricultural technology, digital manufacturing, and climate-resilient solutions.

He highlighted ongoing efforts to revitalise technical and vocational education, ensuring graduates are industry-ready problem-solvers capable of driving national development.

He also announced special TETFund interventions to upgrade engineering schools with modern equipment, building on last year’s medical college upgrades.

The minister stressed sustainable funding models, encouraging institutions to boost Internally Generated Revenue and reduce import dependency.

Dr Sani Tunga, Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and similar institutions, described the retreat as timely for addressing governance gaps, outdated infrastructure, and recurring conflicts within the system.

He emphasised that the transformation of polytechnics is directly linked to national development, empowering youths and fostering self-reliance.

Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, Prof Idris Bugaje, noted that technical and polytechnic education had suffered marginalisation for decades, but reforms in the past two years have begun to restore relevance and public confidence in the sector.

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The retreat brought together leaders from across Nigeria’s polytechnic and technical education sector to chart a path toward innovation, ethical governance, and skills-driven national development.