Association Seeks Alumni Support For Students

GABI HIBBATULLAH, Abuja

Newly elected president-general of the Auchi Polytechnic Alumni Association (APAA), Comrade Sanni Onogu, has called on the alumni to contribute to students’ welfare and development of the institution.

He pledged N500,000 in scholarship grants for 10 indigent students.

Onogu stated this in his acceptance speech at the association’s 18th Biennial Convention and Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Auchi, Edo State, on October 24, 2026.

He said his administration would prioritise unity among alumni, members’ welfare, professional networking and sustained contributions to the development of their alma mater.

According to him, the scholarship initiative would support students facing financial difficulties, while strengthening the association’s commitment to give back to the institution.

He also said a committee would be established to determine the modalities for the award in consultation with the Board of Trustees (BoT), the National Executive Committee and other relevant stakeholders.

Onogu said Auchi Polytechnic had equipped its graduates with the knowledge, technical skills and values needed to build careers and contribute to society, adding that alumni had a responsibility to support the institution and help students overcome financial barriers to education.

“This institution did not just give us certificates; it gave us character. It gave us skills that feed our families. It gave us friends who became brothers and sisters. It gave us a name that opens doors. Today, it is time for us to give back,” he said.

The APAA president said the association would work with the institution’s management to identify areas requiring alumni intervention, including hostel renovation, laboratory equipment and scholarships for disadvantaged students.

He urged members across Nigeria and the diaspora to contribute their resources, professional expertise and networks towards improving the polytechnic’s academic and infrastructural facilities.

“We cannot be proud alumni of a struggling institution. We will partner with the Rector and Management not to complain, but to contribute,” he said.

Onogu identified unity, members’ welfare and support for the alma mater as the three pillars of his administration, stressing that a united alumni body would be better positioned to mobilise resources and support both graduates and the institution.