Jeffrey Adaralegbe, Nigeria.

he Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), NILEST Chapter, fiercely opposed the proposed merger of the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) with the National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT) in a strongly worded statement that was made public today.

The union, represented by Comrade Joseph Odey Oko, Chapter Chairman, claimed that the merger would negatively impact the institutions and parties involved.

The Federal Executive Council approved the government’s initiative to streamline Federal Government Commissions, Agencies, and Parastatals based on the Steve Oronsaye Report, and ASUP supports it.

The ASUP reiterates, taking note of the distinct mandates of every institution.

“NILEST is the only organization in sub-Saharan Africa that specializes in leather and leather product technology. Its activities include research and development, technology transfer, quality control, training and capacity building, environmental protection, and advancing the Nigerian leather industry while also promoting economic development.”

The polytechnic staff union countered that a reevaluation of the proposed merger was necessary due to NILEST’s distinctive mandate and accomplishments.