The House of Representatives Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education has called on the management of Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger State, to uphold educational standards as it introduces new programs.

During a budget performance hearing in Abuja, Rep. Emil Inyang (APC-Cross River) noted the polytechnic’s underperformance in generating internally sourced revenue (IGR) and encouraged steps to improve it.

Responding, Dr. Baba Haruna, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Bida, attributed the revenue challenges to rising competition from nearby institutions now offering programs once unique to Bida. He noted that courses like Chemical Engineering, once rare in northern Nigeria, are now offered by over a dozen institutions, impacting admissions.

Dr. Haruna shared plans to offset these challenges, including the introduction of eight new programs and the recent accreditation of 29 programs to strengthen the institution’s appeal.

Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Dalladi Suleiman, commended the polytechnic’s efforts, urging the management to maintain high standards as they expand, thereby enhancing the institution’s attractiveness to prospective students.