The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has called on the Federal Government to strengthen national security, reform technical education, provide economic relief for citizens, and create more opportunities for youth participation in governance as Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day.
The call was made during a press conference held in Abuja on Friday, where the leadership of the association reflected on the country’s democratic journey, highlighting both its achievements and persistent challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the association, the President of NAPS, Eshiofune Oghayan, said Democracy Day offers Nigerians an opportunity to assess the nation’s progress and renew their commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous society.
According to him, democracy should go beyond the conduct of elections and must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
“Democracy is not merely about periodic elections; it is about building a nation where citizens can live in peace, pursue education without fear, engage in productive enterprise, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” Oghayan said.
He noted that despite significant progress since the return to democratic governance in 1999, several challenges continue to hinder the country’s development. These challenges, he said, include insecurity, unemployment, inflation, inadequate educational funding, and limited opportunities for young people to actively participate in governance and decision-making processes.
The NAPS president emphasized that security remains one of the most pressing concerns facing Nigeria, stressing that no meaningful development can occur in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. He urged government authorities at all levels to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality affecting communities across the country.
Oghayan further called for increased investment in intelligence gathering, modern security technology, and community-based policing initiatives to improve the nation’s security architecture and restore public confidence.
On education, he stressed the need for comprehensive reforms in the technical and vocational education sector. According to him, polytechnics, monotechnics, and colleges of technology play a critical role in producing the skilled workforce required to drive industrial growth and economic development.
He urged policymakers to prioritize funding for technical institutions, modernize learning facilities, and ensure that graduates possess the practical skills needed to compete in the global economy.
“Technical education remains a key driver of innovation, entrepreneurship, and national productivity. Strengthening the sector will empower millions of young Nigerians and contribute significantly to economic growth,” he stated.
Addressing the country’s economic situation, Oghayan expressed concern over the rising cost of living and the economic hardship being experienced by many Nigerians. He called on the government to implement policies that would ease the burden on citizens, create jobs, support small businesses, and improve living standards.
The student leader also advocated greater inclusion of young people in governance, arguing that the youth population represents a valuable resource for national development. He urged political leaders to create platforms that would enable young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to policy making and leadership.
According to him, empowering young people and giving them a stronger voice in national affairs would help strengthen democratic institutions and promote sustainable development.
Oghayan noted that NAPS, which represents more than 28.1 million students in polytechnics, monotechnics, and colleges of technology across Nigeria and in the diaspora, remains committed to advocating policies that advance education, youth empowerment, and national progress.
As Nigerians celebrate Democracy Day, the association called on citizens to remain hopeful, patriotic, and actively engaged in the democratic process. It also urged leaders at all levels to prioritize good governance, accountability, and policies that improve the welfare of the people.
The association maintained that a secure nation, a functional education system, economic stability, and active youth participation are essential pillars for building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
