NANS Advocates for GIPI's Conversion to Polytechnic Status

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Ogun State Government to convert the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute (GIPI) from a monotechnic to a polytechnic. NANS Secretary-General Oladimeji Uthman expressed concerns about the institution's prolonged neglect, underfunding, and poor staff welfare.

Established in 2008 by an Act of the Ogun State House of Assembly under former Governor Gbenga Daniel, GIPI has potential but faces challenges due to inadequate funding and limited course accreditation. Uthman stated that the conversion would broaden GIPI's academic mandate, allowing for more relevant programs and better alignment with the needs of Ogun State and Nigeria's oil, gas, and industrial sectors.

He commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for securing accreditation for two courses but urged further intervention for additional programs. Uthman also highlighted disparities in staff remuneration, calling for a review of the salary structure to integrate GIPI workers into the state wage regime, emphasizing that worker welfare is crucial for educational quality.