Ogun NAPS SLC Inaugurates New Leaders, Calls for Urgent Reforms in Polytechnic Education

The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Student Legislative Council (SLC), Ogun State, has inaugurated its pioneer executive members, with a call for improved student welfare, adequate accommodation, enhanced campus security and responsible leadership among students.

In attendance were student leaders, representatives of various institutions, stakeholders and members of the association, who witnessed the inauguration marking the commencement of the council’s activities in Ogun State.

The newly inaugurated executives are Comrade Opatunmibi Boluwatife Joshua, Chairman; Comrade Adetola Abayomi Daniel, Vice Chairman; Comrade Ayomide Timileyin Oluwadimimu, Assistant General Secretary; and Comrade Obatuga Samson Adeyinka, Treasurer.

Speaking at the event, the newly inaugurated chairman, Comrade Opatunmibi Boluwatife Joshua, said leadership must go beyond occupying positions, stressing that student leaders should demonstrate commitment through practical solutions to challenges confronting students.

Joshua expressed appreciation to the national and zonal leadership of NAPS, stakeholders and student representatives for their support, describing the inauguration as an opportunity to establish a solid foundation for the council’s operations in Ogun State.

He identified inadequate student accommodation as one of the major challenges requiring urgent intervention, urging the government, institutional managements and well-meaning individuals to prioritise the development of hostel facilities within campuses.

According to him, the shortage of accommodation has forced many students to live far from their institutions, increasing transportation costs, making attendance at lectures more difficult and exposing them to potential security risks.

He called for stronger collaboration between the government and educational institutions to address the situation, noting that improved accommodation would enhance students’ welfare and contribute to better academic performance.

On campus security, the chairman acknowledged the efforts of law enforcement agencies in protecting lives and property but emphasised that students also had a responsibility to maintain a safe learning environment.

He disclosed that the Ogun State SLC had engaged security agencies in the state to strengthen collaboration and improve the safety of polytechnic students across campuses.

Joshua urged students to obey the law, shun criminal activities, remain vigilant and report credible security threats to the appropriate authorities.

The chairman also urged students to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing participation in the electoral process as a legitimate means of influencing decisions that affect their future.

He cautioned students against allowing financial inducements, tribal sentiments, religious differences and political affiliations to determine their electoral choices, urging them to make informed decisions based on a critical assessment of issues and candidates.

Joshua also called on students from different institutions to embrace unity and cooperation, noting that a common front would strengthen their advocacy and improve their chances of securing meaningful reforms.

He said members of the pioneer executive had a responsibility to lay a lasting foundation for future leaders, adding that the council should be remembered for its achievements and impact rather than its mere existence.

He assured government officials, institutional managements, stakeholders and security agencies of the council’s readiness to work with them, while urging relevant authorities to give greater attention to issues affecting polytechnic students.

In his remarks, the patron of the council emphasised the importance of leadership, institutional continuity and unity, urging the newly inaugurated executives to demonstrate accountability and take responsibility for their actions.

He also advised members to resolve internal disagreements amicably and avoid allowing personal differences to undermine the council’s progress.

The patron challenged the executives to demonstrate their capacity, uphold the association’s standards and build on the efforts of previous NAPS leaders.

He reaffirmed stakeholders’ commitment to supporting the council, noting that NAPS remained an important platform for advocating the interests of polytechnic students, particularly on issues affecting Higher National Diploma (HND) holders.

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