NAPS Applauds Ekowe Polytechnic Rector’s Leadership, Urges Swift Resolution of NASU Strike

The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has praised Dr. Agbabiaka Adegoke Lukman, Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe, for his “transformative and student-focused leadership.” The commendation comes alongside a plea for a prompt resolution to the ongoing strike by the institution’s local chapter of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU).

In a statement signed by its Senate President, Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, NAPS outlined notable achievements under Dr. Lukman’s administration over the past three years. These include the completion of critical infrastructural projects such as a state-of-the-art E-Library, a 250-seat CBT centre, a renovated health clinic, and agricultural ventures like goat and fish farming. Additionally, over ₦174 million has been invested in TETFund-backed academic and staff development programmes.

NAPS expressed deep concern over the prolonged NASU strike, especially in light of a previous directive from the union’s national leadership calling for its suspension. The student body stressed the need for industrial peace to ensure uninterrupted academic activities and called on all parties to prioritize the interest of students.

The association further urged the Federal Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Education, and the National Assembly to step in and facilitate a timely resolution to the dispute.

“We remain optimistic that all stakeholders will act in the best interest of the students and the institution,” the statement concluded.

NAPS also reiterated its support for the ongoing reforms at the Polytechnic and called for sustained efforts to protect the academic calendar. Attempts to reach the NASU local chairman for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.