Allow polytechnics to award degrees, NAPS urges Tinubu, NASS

The National Association of Polytechnic Students has called for the legislative upgrade of polytechnics to degree-awarding institutions.

In a statement on Monday signed by its President, Comrade Eshiofune Oghayan, the association said the upgrade will resolve the lingering dichotomy between Higher National Diploma and Bachelor of Science holders.

“We urge Mr. President and the National Assembly to empower polytechnics to award Bachelor of Technology and Bachelor of Science in Technology degrees. This reform will resolve the lingering dichotomy between HND and BSc holders,” the statement said.

The students further proposed a Student Insurance Scheme, mental health awareness campaigns, and improved campus security measures as part of their policy advocacy.

NAPS also outlined its commitment to supporting the administration while also holding government officials accountable for any actions that may undermine the President’s vision for education.

The association proposed several initiatives, including a Student Insurance Scheme, mental health campaigns, and campus security advocacy.

It also declared June 12 as “Adupe Day” to honour President Bola Tinubu’s record investment in education, with a mass march planned across the country.

The students have declared the day “Adupe Day” — a Yoruba word meaning “thank you” — to celebrate what they described as the administration’s unprecedented financial commitment to education.

The association also commended the Tinubu-led administration for allocating N2.52 trillion to the education sector in the 2025 national budget — a 133% increase compared to 2023.

NAPS also highlighted other key achievements, including the approval of N683.4 billion for tertiary education interventions, the disbursement of over N104 billion through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, and the launch of the 3 Million Technical Talent initiative aimed at bridging digital skill gaps.

“In clear contrast to past administrations, which often approached education as a footnote in national development, President Tinubu has demonstrated that education is the foundation, not the filler.

“As the National Association of Polytechnic Students, we say clearly that we will continue to support this administration because it has supported us. We are your allies, not your accomplices.

“We hereby proclaim June 12, 2025, as a day of historic appreciation Nigerian students across all campuses, polytechnics, colleges, and technical institutions will embark on a One Million Student March,” the statement stated.

NAPS stated that the proposed “One Million Student March” is expected to draw participants from polytechnics, technical institutions, and colleges across the country, adding that the event will be a peaceful demonstration of gratitude.