By Olawale Ogunbusola, Ibadan

The Senate Arm of the National Association of Polytechnic Students, NAPS, has backed the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, on calls for student representation in the Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness.

NAPS President of the Senate, Sen. Comr. Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, said student inclusion would strengthen grassroots sensitisation, especially in rural and semi-urban communities.

“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for proactive steps to strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness against public health emergencies,” Oyewumi said.

“However, the effectiveness of any national public health response will be greatly enhanced by the inclusion of student bodies, particularly NANS and NAPS.”

He noted that polytechnic campuses are strategically located between urban centres and rural areas, making students critical in health advocacy and information dissemination.

“The Senate Arm of NAPS believes student representatives will facilitate effective dissemination of health information, promote preventive measures, and support government efforts,” he added.

The Clerk of the Senate, Sen. Comrade Jimoh Ibrahim, said NAPS structures across campuses nationwide could mobilise students and collaborate with health agencies to ensure accurate information reaches polytechnic communities.

NAPS therefore called on the Federal Government to include representatives of both NANS and NAPS in the Presidential Task Force to guarantee broader stakeholder participation.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at protecting public health and advancing student welfare.