It is with immense joy and profound optimism that I write to congratulate you, Comrade Kpanja Shammah, on your resounding victory as the National President of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, having garnered an impressive 511 votes at the just concluded National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Jos. Your emergence is not merely a personal triumph but a clarion call to transformative leadership at this critical juncture in our union’s history.
I equally extend my warmest felicitations to all members of the newly elected National Executive Council. The peaceful and conflict-free conduct of the elections in Jos speaks volumes about the maturity of our union and the collective desire for progress that binds us together as comrades in the struggle for academic excellence and workers’ welfare.
As you assume these sensitive positions in directing the affairs of ASUP in Nigeria, I am reminded of the timeless words of John Quincy Adams: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” This is the essence of the mandate you have received from your colleagues across Nigeria’s polytechnics. Leadership, as you well know, is not about the position but about the positive impact you make in the lives of those you serve.
The journey ahead demands courage, wisdom, and unwavering commitment. As Nelson Mandela profoundly stated, “A leader is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.” Your leadership must be one that empowers every member, that listens before it speaks, and that seeks consensus while remaining resolute on matters of principle.
In these challenging times facing polytechnic education in Nigeria, remember the words of Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” You will face obstacles, moments of doubt, and situations that test your resolve. Yet, I am confident that with unity of purpose and collective action, you will navigate these challenges successfully.
As Martin Luther King Jr. reminds us, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Stand firm for the welfare of our members, the improvement of our working conditions, the advancement of polytechnic education, and the dignity of our profession. Your leadership will be measured not by the promises made today but by the concrete results delivered tomorrow.
I urge you to lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability. As John C. Maxwell wisely noted, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Be that beacon of hope and exemplary conduct that our union desperately needs. Build bridges where walls exist, foster dialogue where there is discord, and create opportunities where others see obstacles.
To the entire National Executive Council, remember that “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” as Helen Keller beautifully expressed. Your collective strength lies in your unity. Support one another, complement each other’s strengths, and work as a cohesive team committed to the greater good of ASUP and polytechnic education in Nigeria.
As you embark on this noble assignment, carry with you the hopes and aspirations of thousands of polytechnic lecturers across Nigeria. We believe in your capacity to deliver. We trust in your judgment. We stand ready to support your initiatives. And we pray that divine wisdom will guide your every decision.
May your tenure be marked by significant achievements, harmonious relationships with government and relevant stakeholders, improved welfare for members, and an elevated status for polytechnic education in Nigeria.
May you find the strength to persevere when the road is rough and the humility to celebrate when victories are won.
Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved victory. History has called, and you have answered. Now, go forth and write a glorious chapter in the annals of ASUP.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
In solidarity and brotherhood,
Dr. Oluwole Solanke, PhD, FCIB
Chief Lecturer
Federal Polytechnic, Offa
Kwara State, Nigeria
