Nigeria’s federal polytechnics may soon be able to award Bachelor of Technology degrees in science, engineering and technology-related fields following the Senate’s approval of amendments to the Federal Polytechnic Act.
The move could create a new academic pathway for polytechnic graduates, particularly holders of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) qualifications, while renewing attention on the longstanding disparity between university and polytechnic education in Nigeria.
The Senate adopted the amendment on Thursday after reversing its earlier position on the legislation, which restricted federal polytechnics to awarding ND and HND qualifications.
Under the revised provision, a new Section 2(1)(c) empowers federal polytechnics to award Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech. Hons.) degrees in science, engineering and technology programmes to eligible holders of ND, HND or Postgraduate Diploma qualifications.
However, the new degree-awarding power will be subject to accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant regulatory bodies.
The legislative changes also address the administration of federal polytechnics. Under the revised Section 8, governing councils will appoint rectors for an initial five-year term, with the possibility of a second and final four-year tenure.
Section 31 has also been amended to redefine a minister as the officer responsible for education.
The amendment sailed through consideration at the Senate after it was recommitted to the Committee of the Whole, with no senator raising an objection to the proposed changes. Senate President Godswill Akpabio subsequently put the provisions to a voice vote, which received majority support.
HND holders' long-running concerns
The development comes against the backdrop of years of debate over the treatment of HND holders compared with graduates who possess university degrees.
In Nigeria, holders of HND qualifications have historically encountered differences in recruitment grades, promotion opportunities and career progression in some public and private sector organisations, despite completing tertiary education.
Although successive governments have introduced policies to address the disparity, concerns remain over how qualifications from polytechnics are recognised in employment and professional advancement.
A circular issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in March 2018 allowed HND holders to enter the federal civil service at Salary Grade Level 08. However, progression beyond Grade Level 14 and movement into the officer cadre have remained subject to applicable schemes of service and public service rules.
The issue has also featured in legislative debates. In 2023, the House of Representatives raised concerns about alleged differences in the promotion of HND and degree holders in the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and called for compliance with existing directives.
What the amendment could mean
The new legislation could expand opportunities for polytechnic institutions to develop degree programmes tailored to technical and industrial needs. It may also offer eligible students additional routes to advanced qualifications within the polytechnic system.
However, the extent to which the change will address employment discrimination against HND holders will depend on the implementation of the law, accreditation requirements and whether employers and public service authorities adjust their recruitment and promotion rules accordingly.
For now, the amendment establishes a legal basis for federal polytechnics to award the specified B.Tech. degrees, subject to regulatory approval. Its broader impact on the relationship between university and polytechnic qualifications will become clearer as the new framework is implemented.
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