NAPS Douces tensions over kogi poly tuition hike.
… SAYS DECISION TO INCREASE SCHOOL FEE JUSTIFIABLE
The National leadership of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has held a fact finding interface with the Management of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, over concerns raised from some quarters regarding the recent school fee increment.
The meeting, which took place at the Council Chamber of the Polytechnic Main Campus, Lokoja on Wednesday17th June, 2025, had in attendance the National Executives of NAPS led by its President, Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan (Aluta-ShopRite), alongside other student leaders, including representatives of the National and Zonal body of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the National Association of Kogi State Students (NAKOSS).
In his address, Comrade Oghayan stated that the meeting was a constructive alternative to the association’s earlier planned protest, which was intended to press home the concerns raised by some students.
He noted that the protest was part of NAPS’ strategies to get the management to reconsider its decision.
However, after listening to a detailed presentation by the Rector, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, on the issue, the NAPS President admitted that the decision was justifiable given the prevailing economic realities as a result of the corresponding effects of the removal of fuel subsidy.
He acknowledged that the Management’s stance was not only germane but also necessary having been established that the Students’ Union leadership and other critical stakeholders were part of the process that led to the upward review of the fee.
Comrade Oghayan further disclosed that the planned protests was influenced by actors within and outside the Polytechnic community who do not have adequate information on the rationale for the fee increment or trying to use the opportunity to settle personal scores with political motives all in the bid to mislead the Association.
While appealing for measures to cushion the effect of the increment, he expressed NAPS’ willingness to cooperate with the Polytechnic Management in any possible ways that could continually support the welfare of the students.
In his remarks, the Rector, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, commended NAPS for opting for dialogue instead of protests, which he said could have been hijacked by detractors of the State Government and the Polytechnic in particular.
He explained that the fee adjustment process was procedural, inclusive, and meticulously handled, with critical stakeholders represented on the Committee chaired by the Deputy Rector, Dr. Samuel Taiwo Olowo.
The Committee included Principal Officers, Deans, Directors, the SUG President and Secretary, NAKOSS President and Secretary, the Non-Indigenous Students’ Association President and Secretary, Alumni Association President, the Polytechnic Chaplain, the Chief Imam of the Polytechnic, the Dean of Student Services, Director of Legal Services, and the Chief Security Officer, amongst others.
According to him, after extensive consultations, the Committee recommended an upward adjustment of fees in line with economic realities, adopting the Kwara State Polytechnic template due to the historical ties between Kogi State Polytechnic and Kwara State Polytechnic.
The recommendations and in line with the Polytechnic Law were approved by the Kogi State House of Assembly, with effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.
He noted that the increment applies only to the new students, while returning students will continue with the existing 2018 fee structure.
Prof. Usman stressed that the increment was necessary to sustain quality education while reassuring students of the Polytechnic’s commitment to their welfare.
He further revealed that, beginning from the next session, efforts would be put in place to allow for payment in installment to ease financial pressure.
Prof Usman praised the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of education in Kogi State Polytechnic in particular and Kogi state as a whole.
The Rector highlighted ongoing interventions under the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, including the Installation of surveillance cameras across campuses, historic fencing of the Itakpe campus to prevent encroachment and Provision of solar-powered streetlights to enhance illumination and security.
The Rector also commended the Governor for the improved welfare of staff most especially in the area of prompt payment of salaries, implementation of minimum wage and Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme amongst others.
In their separate remarks, student leaders and stakeholders commended the Polytechnic management for its proactive steps in handling the matter.
They expressed confidence in the Rector’s leadership and pledged to synergize with management and government in ensuring a conducive learning environment.
Representatives of security agencies also lauded the Rector’s proactive engagement, describing the meeting as a timely intervention that would promote peace on campus.
The meeting was attended by Principal Officers, Deans, Directors, and student representatives, including SUG President, Enimokanyi Oluwadamilola Janet, NAKOSS President, Abubakar Isah Sheriff and the Non-Indigene Students’ Association President.
Uredo Omale
Director, Public Relations and Protocol
Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja
