Federal Polytechnic Ede Alumni Association Holds 2nd Annual General Meeting
By Comr. Olatunji Olorunfemi, National Publicity Secretary 1
The Federal Polytechnic Ede Alumni Association held its 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the Waterfield Luxury Hotel in Akobo, Ibadan, Oyo State. The event attracted a substantial number of members, both physically and virtually. Attendees included the National Executive Council (NEC), Board of Trustees (BOT), the management team of Federal Polytechnic Ede, external auditors, legal advisers, and representatives from the Forum of Nigeria Polytechnic Alumni Associations (FONPAA), along with chapter members from various locations within and outside Nigeria.
President Mrs. Adedoyin Balogun commenced the meeting at 2:05 PM, following an opening prayer by Mr. Olaniyi Ayobami Simeon from the Oyo branch and the recitation of the Alumni Anthem. In her welcome address, President Balogun thanked the attendees for their participation and underscored the importance of collective support and unity among members. She also acknowledged a minor delay in the meeting’s start.
BOT Chairman Mr. Oladosu Babson praised the alumni for their accomplishments and encouraged ongoing support for the executive team. Comrade Gbenga Babalola, representing FONPAA, lauded the association’s progress and reiterated FONPAA’s commitment to enhancing technological education in Nigeria.
Mr. Adefisoye Olumide, Deputy Registrar of Federal Polytechnic Ede, urged alumni to uphold and protect the institution’s esteemed reputation.
Dr. Hafeez Taiwo Ewedairo, National General Secretary, presented a detailed report on the association’s activities over the past year. Key projects included the formation of the current executive council, student training programs, and the awarding of scholarships to 46 students. A moment of silence was observed in honor of the late BOT member, Gbenga Oyawa. The active participation of the North America branch chairman was also acknowledged.
The external audit report by Mr. Olawale Felix Rokosu FCA from Olawale Rokosu & Co. confirmed the association’s financial records as accurate and compliant with international standards. The audit disclosed an income of N27,385,383, an expenditure of N14,679,414, and a surplus of N12,705,969.
Branch updates highlighted significant activities across chapters: the Osun branch, established in 2021, now has over 300 members and is planning a reunion; the Oyo branch, with over 160 members, is addressing issues and preparing for elections; the Port Harcourt branch is actively setting up accounts; the Abuja branch continues to grow its membership and welfare programs; and the Lagos/Ogun branch is organizing a reunion and executive elections. The North America and UK branches reported successful events and active memberships.
The meeting addressed technical issues with the Zoom platform, emphasizing the need for better preparation and timely distribution of reports. Recommendations included allowing non-financial members to observe meetings to increase engagement and attendance. Past President Mr. Festus Olaifa and other members suggested enhancing branch activities and resolving conflicts through dialogue. The Legal Adviser proposed incorporating sign language interpretation for future events.
The AGM concluded with a vote of thanks by Welfare Director Bldr. Adetoyese Ogunremi. The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Bldr. Dr. Buari Tirimisiyu and seconded by Mr. Adeola Anwojue. Mr. Oseni Kazeem led the closing prayer, and the 2nd stanza of the Alumni Anthem was recited.
This successful AGM reaffirms the Federal Polytechnic Ede Alumni Association’s commitment to unity, progress, and active engagement in advancing the goals of its members and the institution.
