GF, Fagbemi advocates best practices in polytechnics’ governance

By Sharon Umeasalugo and Chinonyelum Chukujindu

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called for the adoption of best practices in the governance of polytechnics, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and unity.

The immediate past chairman of Governing Council of Yaba College of Technology made the call at a retreat organized by the college for its governing council members and management team.

The retreat, themed “Consolidating the Past and Shaping the Future,” marked an opportunity for members of the newly inaugurated governing council to reflect on the institution’s progress and develop strategies for future success.

Fagbemi, who served two terms as Chairman of the Governing Council (2017-2020 and 2021-2023), expressed his gratitude for being invited to the event, referring to Yaba College of Technology as “Yaba the Great.”
He highlighted the significance of the retreat, noting that it equips council members with the necessary tools for effective policy-making and governance.

In his address, the minister underscored the importance of reviewing past achievements to consolidate the future, pointing to key milestones during his tenure. These included administrative restructuring, enhancement of academic standards, staff welfare, establishment of an endowment fund, physical infrastructural development, and internally generated revenue.

Fagbemi emphasized that governance, which involves transparent decision-making and resource management, is crucial for institutional success. He urged the governing council to adopt principles of accountability, transparency, participation, and responsiveness in their roles.

According to him, effective governance not only fosters trust but also promotes sustainable development within the institution.

“Governance refers to the systems, processes, and structures that guides and regulate the actions of organizations. For Yaba College of Technology, this means taking informed decisions in a transparent manner for effective management of both human and material resources,” he stated.

He further highlighted the need for unity and cooperation among the governing council, management, staff, students, and stakeholders, noting that collaboration is key to achieving the college’s objectives.

He advised the council members to establish clear goals, foster open communication, and embrace teamwork, as these would lead to improved decision-making and increased productivity.

In addition to unity, Fagbemi outlined several best practices in institutional governance that should be adopted to ensure the success and sustainability of YABATECH. These, he regarded as clear purpose and mission, ensuring experienced leadership, fostering diversity, developing strategic plans, and engaging stakeholders.

Also addressing the gathering, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof ‘Funsho Afolabi, in his welcome speech, called on all stakeholders to “put their hands on deck” for the immense benefit of the college.

Prof. Afolabi stressed the importance of collective efforts from all parties across students, staff, unions, and management in driving the institution toward greater achievements.

“YABATECH belongs to us all, and it is only through our combined dedication that we can truly fulfil its vision of excellence. I urged every one of us to be active participants in shaping the future of this great institution,” he remarked.

The Professor of Geography also commended YABATECH Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul for adopting the ERECT agenda, which will propel the council and management forward, and 2023-2028 Strategic Plan of the College is a testament to their commitment to excellence.

He submitted that the aims of the retreat are to provide a shared understanding of the college strategic directions, enhanced cohesion and teamwork, outline key decisions and resolutions in the communique to be of immense benefits to all stakeholders.

He praised YABATECH achievements over the years and look forward to shaping the future of the College together.

The Rector, Dr. Abdul presented the roadmap of the college for the next four years arising from his ERECT Agenda which metamorphosed to the college 5-Year Strategic Plan.

The governing council members lauded the rector’s vision at shaping the future of the college and pledged total support of accomplishing the plan.