From Hauwa'u Mohammed KEFFI
Students rally in support of Hajiya Hauwa Tanko’s leadership
Students of the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa have called on the federal government to appoint Hajiya Hauwa Tanko, the institution's Acting Rector, as the substantive Rector.
The appeal was made during a peaceful demonstration held at the Muhammadu Buhari Multipurpose Hall on Thursday in Nasarawa Local Government Area.
Since the tenure of the last substantive Rector, Dr. Abdullahi Alhassan, ended on December 31, 2023, the institution has been overseen by Acting Rectors, with Hajiya Tanko currently holding the position.
The demonstration featured students carrying placards with messages such as “We want a mother who cares about students,” “Hajiya Hauwa Tanko is the best for the job,” and “The reward for hard work is more work.”
Students Commend Acting Rector’s Leadership
Speaking on behalf of the students, Nuhu Abdulsamad, President of the Students Union Government (SUG), highlighted Hajiya Tanko’s dedication to students' welfare and campus development.
“She has created a conducive learning environment, prioritized security, and significantly improved the institution’s infrastructure,” Abdulsamad said. “Her performance as Acting Rector demonstrates her capability to lead as a substantive Rector.”
According to Abdulsamad, the students unanimously support her appointment to enable her to actualize her vision for the polytechnic.
Legislative Arm Supports Retention
The Senate President of the SUG, Muhammad Jamiu, echoed similar sentiments, citing Hajiya Tanko’s previous roles and current achievements as proof of her suitability for the role.
“She has consistently shown leadership qualities and concern for students' welfare,” Jamiu said. “As someone we know and trust, we believe she is the right choice for this position.”
The students emphasized that their rally was not a protest against her but a demonstration of their satisfaction with her leadership and a plea for continuity.
