NAPS Urges NANS To Oppose Polytechnic-to-University Conversions

The National Association of Polytechnic Students has urged the National Association of Nigerian Students’ president, Olushola Ladoja to openly oppose any proposal to turn polytechnics into universities nationwide.

In an open letter obtained by The PUNCH on Monday, NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, warned that such conversions threaten the future of technical and vocational education in Nigeria.

“We call on you, Comrade President, to add your voice in strong opposition to the ongoing attempts to convert polytechnics into universities across Nigeria,” Oghayan stated.

“While we respect all institutions of learning, we must not confuse growth with duplication.”

He argued that Nigeria is in urgent need of technically skilled manpower and that polytechnics play a crucial role in providing practical, hands-on training that supports industries, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Oghayan also raised concerns over a recent proposal in the House of Representatives seeking to make a university degree the minimum qualification for candidates contesting the office of Local Government Chairman.

“This proposal is not only undemocratic, but it also alienates a significant portion of Nigeria’s educated population, including polytechnic and NCE holders,” he said.

“We believe leadership should be based on competence, vision, and capacity — not academic elitism.”

NAPS appealed to Ladoja to leverage his position to lead a unified resistance against what it termed “anti-technical education” policies.

“Your voice carries weight, and your influence has the power to shape policy, correct injustice, and protect the dignity of every student in this country,” Oghayan wrote.

The student body also commended Ladoja’s proactive leadership, citing his recent intervention in the case of Comrade James Akeju, who was allegedly unjustly detained in Ondo State.

“Your passionate and timely intervention is a testament to your commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of fundamental rights,” Oghayan noted.

Reaffirming confidence in Ladoja’s leadership, NAPS said it hopes to see him become “a rallying point for justice and educational equity” in the country.

“We are not just calling for your support. We are inviting you to lead this collective resistance,” the letter concluded.