By Daniel Aondoaseer Zendesha 

Yandev, Benue State — Akperan Orshi Polytechnic, Yandev, is facing significant infrastructure, security and operational challenges that management says require greater government attention to improve teaching, learning and institutional development.

Observations from a visit to the institution indicate that several buildings show signs of ageing, with deteriorating roofs, damaged wooden structures and facilities requiring rehabilitation. Some buildings reportedly retain architectural features dating back to the institution's origins as the former College of Agriculture.

The report also highlights concerns over campus security, stating that the expansive institution lacks adequate perimeter fencing, making it vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Management says valuable items, including equipment and fish from the institution's fish ponds, have reportedly been stolen during previous security breaches.

Road infrastructure remains another concern. The access road linking the Yandev Roundabout to the Polytechnic is described as being in poor condition, while several internal roads also require rehabilitation.

According to the report, the institution relies heavily on casual workers, with management citing low remuneration and salary arrears as major challenges affecting staff welfare and service delivery.

Other concerns identified include inadequate lecture halls, ageing furniture, insufficient teaching and non-teaching personnel, poor hostel facilities, limited laboratory equipment, inadequate workshops, lack of functional agricultural machinery and unreliable electricity supply.

Speaking during the interaction, the Rector, Dr. Nicodemus Terkaa Nombor, acknowledged interventions by Governor Hyacinth Alia and support received from TETFund, particularly in infrastructure development and staff training.

However, he maintained that additional intervention is required to address the institution's growing needs.

The Rector also appealed for a review of the reported revenue retention arrangement affecting internally generated revenue, arguing that greater financial flexibility would enable management to address pressing operational priorities.

Akperan Orshi Polytechnic, located in Yandev, Benue State, evolved from the former College of Agriculture and remains one of the state's key public tertiary institutions, providing technical and vocational education.