As preparations intensify for the 2026 National Convention of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), scheduled to hold in Abuja in July 2026, one of the Association’s presidential hopefuls, Comrade Ayaka Peter Ekom, paid a strategic consultative visit to the North Central Zonal Coordinator, Distinguished Comrade Ahmed Peter Hassan (CNPS), as part of his nationwide stakeholder engagement ahead of the convention.
The visit, undertaken in the spirit of consultation and democratic engagement, reflects the aspirant’s commitment to interacting with critical stakeholders across the Association while seeking their counsel, support, and prayers as he pursues his aspiration to lead the foremost umbrella body of Polytechnic students in Nigeria.
Comrade Ayaka Peter Ekom, the immediate past North Central Zonal Coordinator of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), was accompanied by members of his entourage, including notable stakeholders from his home state. Their visit underscored the importance of consultation, collaboration, and relationship-building in fostering a democratic culture that prioritizes dialogue over division and ideas over rhetoric.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to engage in extensive and productive discussions on issues of national importance affecting the Association and the broader Polytechnic education sector. Deliberations focused on strengthening the institutional capacity of NAPS, promoting unity across the six geopolitical zones, improving student advocacy, enhancing organizational accountability, and advancing initiatives that will better serve the interests of Polytechnic students throughout the country.
A significant aspect of the engagement centered on the future of NAPS and the evolving expectations of its members. Both parties exchanged views on the need for visionary leadership capable of responding to contemporary challenges facing Nigerian students while preserving the values of transparency, constitutionalism, inclusiveness, and responsible representation. The discussions also explored strategies for strengthening collaboration between the national leadership, zonal structures, and campus-based student unions to ensure a more responsive and effective Association.
Drawing from his experience as the immediate past North Central Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Ayaka Peter Ekom shared perspectives on leadership continuity, institutional reforms, and the importance of building upon the achievements of previous administrations. He reiterated his belief that sustainable progress within NAPS can only be achieved through inclusive governance, purposeful engagement with stakeholders, and policies that directly address the welfare, academic interests, and leadership development of Nigerian Polytechnic students.
Speaking during the engagement, the presidential hopeful expressed his appreciation to Distinguished Comrade Ahmed Peter Hassan (CNPS) for granting him the opportunity to present his aspirations and engage in meaningful dialogue. He acknowledged the strategic role of the North Central Zone in the affairs of the Association and emphasized that consultation remains a fundamental pillar of democratic leadership. According to him, seeking the advice, support, and prayers of respected leaders is essential to building consensus and fostering confidence among stakeholders.
In his remarks, Distinguished Comrade Ahmed Peter Hassan (CNPS) commended Comrade Ayaka Peter Ekom for demonstrating political maturity through constructive consultation and respectful engagement with the leadership of the Forum. He observed that such interactions contribute to a healthier democratic process by providing stakeholders with the opportunity to evaluate ideas, leadership philosophies, and policy proposals in an atmosphere of mutual respect and objectivity.
The North Central Zonal Coordinator further emphasized that the future of the National Association of Polytechnic Students depends on visionary leaders who are committed to constitutional governance, accountability, service, and the collective interests of Polytechnic students nationwide. He encouraged all aspirants to continue conducting their campaigns with civility, decorum, and a focus on issues that will positively impact the Association.
The engagement concluded in a cordial and optimistic atmosphere, with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to the unity, stability, and continued progress of NAPS. Comrade Ayaka Peter Ekom expressed gratitude for the warm reception, invaluable counsel, and prayers extended to him during the visit, describing the interaction as insightful and encouraging.
As the countdown to the July 2026 NAPS National Convention continues, strategic consultations of this nature remain vital to strengthening democratic participation within the Association. They provide aspirants with the opportunity to engage stakeholders, refine their vision, and demonstrate their preparedness to provide purposeful leadership.
The National Association of Polytechnic Students stands at a defining moment in its history, and the outcome of the forthcoming convention will play a significant role in shaping the direction of the Association for years to come. It is therefore expected that the emerging leadership will uphold the principles of integrity, unity, accountability, and excellence while advancing policies that promote the welfare and aspirations of Polytechnic students across Nigeria.