The assurance by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) that the Federal Government would not allow polytechnics to derail from fulfilling their mandates as skills, research and innovative platforms for Nigerian experts is very significant. This is against the evolution of polytechnics as a main supplier of middle-level, skilled, technical expertise necessary to drive a holistic growth of the Nigerian economy.

While there is no doubt that the institution has succeeded largely in meeting that mandate, it is worrisome that governments have done little to promote and advance the cause of polytechnics over the years. Rather, the country has witnessed controversial debates about the value of polytechnics compared to universities. To crown it all, polytechnics are transitioning to universities both in nomenclature and the award of degrees rather than diplomas.
  
The NBTE’s Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, gave the assurance during a facility tour of a private tertiary institution, Montgomery Polytechnic, for the accreditation process before the commencement of operations in 2025. The board’s delegation, led by the Director of New Institutions, Hadji Bilikisu Daku, was at the permanent site of the new polytechnic to inspect facilities for proper accreditation of some courses before the commencement of academic activities.
  
Bugaje, represented by an agency official, Rasak Shoremekun, said the quality assurance of Nigerian polytechnic education will boost its stature for global reckoning. Describing polytechnic education as a vital tool for economic development, Bugaje advised the institution to place a high premium on research and skill acquisition, reminding that no country can develop or make headway in innovation without adequate research and exploration.
   
He said: “The Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu and Federal Ministry of Education, will continue to ensure that polytechnics do not derail in their task of producing skilled and innovative graduates, who are also research-driven. The agency affirmed its readiness to ensure that polytechnics churn out quality graduates with relevant skills, research orientation and innovative thinking that can reset the nation on the path of growth and development.
   
The evolution of polytechnics in Nigeria has been a double-edged sword, promising advanced educational opportunities while simultaneously threatening the very essence of their foundational mission. As these institutions increasingly transition into degree-awarding entities or merge with universities, the question arises: Are Nigerians sacrificing technical and vocational training for academic prestige?
  
Historically, polytechnics have been pivotal in addressing the skills gap within Nigeria’s workforce. Their primary goal has always been to produce highly skilled technicians to meet various industries’ demands. However, the recent trend of polytechnics transforming into universities raises significant concerns about their ability to fulfil this core mandate. While this shift may seem beneficial, it risks diluting the focus on practical skills and vocational training essential for national development.
  
Experts emphasise that maintaining a clear distinction between polytechnic education and university education is vital to upholding the integrity of technical training. So, it is heartwarming that the Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that polytechnics do not stray from their original purpose. The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) recently articulated this commitment, highlighting that polytechnic education catalyses economic growth through innovation and research.
  
To further understand why polytechnics should not derail from core mandates, it should be recognised that polytechnics were established to provide middle-level manpower focused on technical skills and vocational training. Unlike traditional universities prioritising theoretical knowledge, polytechnics are designed to cultivate hands-on experience and technical proficiency through programmes like the Ordinary National Diploma (OND). This niche and unique focus is crucial for producing graduates who can thrive in a competitive job market.
  
So, as Nigeria aspires to achieve technological breakthroughs and nurture innovators akin to global tech giants like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg, the country must remain strategically focused. This means ensuring that polytechnics stay true to their core mandates rather than becoming degree factories.
  
Again, it is important to recognise that despite their critical role, Nigerian polytechnics face numerous challenges that hinder their effectiveness in producing skilled graduates. Insights from various reports indicate that many institutions grapple with outdated curricula, inadequate facilities and insufficient funding. Furthermore, with over 424 polytechnics in Nigeria, many have yet to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape. These factors collectively impede quality education.
  
So, while the Federal Government’s commitment to preserving polytechnics’ core mandates is commendable, it necessitates concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved. Strategic reforms are essential for Nigerian polytechnics to maintain their foundational purpose and serve as engines of economic growth.

Hence, Nigeria must address these challenges. As such, the NBTE must adopt a multifaceted approach targeting systemic issues and operational strategies. This should include policy reforms prioritising funding for technical education, enhancing research initiatives within polytechnics and fostering industry partnerships. Furthermore, upgrading facilities and equipment is essential for practical training, while enhanced certification processes will ensure global recognition of qualifications. In addition, it is important to collaborate with industries in curriculum design to align educational outcomes with market needs, which will ultimately improve graduate employability.
  
Therefore, to birth ‘renewed hope’ of attaining technological breakthroughs and producing innovators and technology giants, Nigeria should remain focused on the issue of raising innovative and creative citizens that world turn around various sectors and ensure that polytechnics do not derail from their core mandates. 

All said, for Nigeria to realise its vision of becoming a hub for technological innovation and produce a new generation of creative thinkers, the government must prioritise the unique role of polytechnics in the country’s educational landscape. The NBTE should remain vigilant in its oversight functions, ensuring rigorous standards and quality assurance in polytechnic education to preserve this unique role.  
  
Let students, educators and policymakers rally together to safeguard the integrity of polytechnic institutions and empower them to fulfil their vital role in shaping Nigeria’s future. Together, Nigerians can cultivate a generation of skilled professionals ready to drive our economy forward!