Top 10 Oldest Polytechnics In Nigeria And When They Were Founded

Polytechnics in Nigeria play a vital role in vocational and technical education, offering practical skills in engineering, technology, management, and applied sciences. But which of these institutions paved the way?

In this guide, we reveal the 10 oldest polytechnics in Nigeria, when they were established, and what makes each one historically significant.

Top 10 Oldest Polytechnics in Nigeria

Here’s a list of the oldest polytechnics in Nigeria, starting with the pioneer institution:

1. Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)

• Founded: 1947

• Location: Yaba, Lagos

• Highlights:

  • Nigeria’s first ever tertiary institution.

  • Known for programs in engineering, technology, and arts.

  • Offers National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), and part-time studies.

2. Kaduna Polytechnic

• Founded: 1956

• Location: Kaduna State

• Highlights:

  • One of the largest polytechnics in sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Offers over 150 academic programs across its five colleges.

  • Strong in engineering, business studies, and environmental design.

3. The Polytechnic, Ibadan

• Founded: 1970

• Location: Ibadan, Oyo State

• Highlights:

  • Renowned for producing skilled professionals in technology and engineering.

  • Popular choice in the South-West for polytechnic education.

  • Offers day and evening programs.

4. Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu

• Founded: 1973

• Location: Enugu State

• Highlights:

  • Combines management and technology in its curriculum.

  • Popular for courses in mass communication, engineering, and business.

  • One of the top-ranked polytechnics in Eastern Nigeria.

5. Auchi Polytechnic

• Founded: 1973

• Location: Auchi, Edo State

• Highlights:

  • Known for innovation and academic excellence.

  • Offers over 50 accredited programs.

  • One of the most competitive polytechnics in the country.

6. Federal Polytechnic, Nekede

• Founded: 1978

• Location: Owerri, Imo State

• Highlights:

  • Highly rated in engineering and computer studies.

  • Offers ND, HND, and short-term certifications.

  • A leader in e-learning and tech-driven education.

7. Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro

• Founded: 1979

• Location: Ogun State

• Highlights:

  • Offers programs in environmental, business, engineering, and communication studies.

  • Known for discipline and quality technical education.

8. Federal Polytechnic, Bida

• Founded: 1977

• Location: Niger State

• Highlights:

  • Focuses on applied sciences and engineering.

  • Well-structured academic calendar and practical orientation.

  • Offers pre-ND, ND, and HND programs.

9. Federal Polytechnic, Oko

• Founded: 1979

• Location: Anambra State

• Highlights:

  • Evolved from the College of Arts and Science.

  • Popular in the South-East for ICT and business programs.

  • Offers innovative learning with modern labs and resources.

10. Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti

• Founded: 1977

• Location: Ekiti State

• Highlights:

  • One of the most respected federal polytechnics in Nigeria.

  • Offers a wide range of ND and HND programs in science, engineering, and humanities.

  • Strong focus on entrepreneurship and student development.

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Final Thoughts

These polytechnics laid the foundation for Nigeria’s technical and vocational education system. They’ve produced countless graduates who’ve contributed to national development in areas like engineering, business, media, and more.

Choosing any of these institutions means joining a legacy of discipline, innovation, and practical learning. Whether you want to pursue an HND, ND, or even professional certifications,