The newly appointed Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu (FCAI), Ebonyi State, Professor Agwu Ekwe, has unveiled an ambitious plan to reposition the institution as a nationally and globally competitive, multi-functional college capable of meeting Nigeria’s academic and agricultural development needs.
Professor Ekwe made this known on Tuesday during his maiden address to staff and students at the college in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, where he outlined his vision for revitalizing the institution and restoring its lost academic prestige.
He pledged to prioritize the restoration of accreditation for the college’s programmes, noting that achieving full compliance with regulatory standards would be central to his administration’s drive for academic excellence. According to him, strengthening the institution’s academic framework will not only enhance its credibility but also attract more students and partnerships.
The Provost also emphasized the need to boost the college’s internally generated revenue (IGR), expressing confidence that FCAI could attain financial stability and gradually become self-sustaining within the next four years.
He assured staff that improved financial management would translate into better welfare and a more conducive working environment.
As part of efforts to achieve this, Professor Ekwe disclosed plans to collaborate with the private sector in developing an investment strategy that would lead to the establishment of an endowment fund within the first two years of his administration. He explained that such a fund would provide long-term financial support for infrastructure, research, and academic programmes.
In addition, he said his administration would adopt prudent financial practices, including setting aside a fixed percentage of internally generated revenue to ensure sustainability.
He also highlighted the importance of attracting institutional research grants as a means of diversifying the college’s funding base.
To enhance transparency and accountability, the Provost announced plans to centralize revenue collection processes, a move he said would curb leakages, reduce waste, and ensure that all funds are properly accounted for.
Professor Ekwe further stressed his commitment to making FCAI a hub for cutting-edge research and development, as well as a centre for training skilled manpower needed for the socio-economic advancement of Ebonyi State and Nigeria at large.
“I will sustain and intensify academic development through proper accreditation by relevant regulatory bodies,” he said, reiterating his determination to place the college on a strong academic footing.
His assurances have raised expectations among stakeholders, who are hopeful that the new leadership will usher in a period of renewed growth, improved standards, and greater national relevance for the institution.
