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Tag: NANS

  • NANS commends Olopade for repositioning sports

    NANS commends Olopade for repositioning sports

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has hailed the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, for what it described as its remarkable contributions towards the development of sports in Nigeria. 

    The association praised Olopade for his giant strides in sports development since assuming office as NSC DG.

    A statement by NANS National Vice President on Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Akinbodunse Felicia noted that Olopade, an indigene of Ogun State, has made the state proud with his exceptional leadership and expertise in sports development. 

    She added that Olopade’s pedigree in sports and youth development, honed during his tenure as Sports Commissioner in Ogun State, has served him well in his new role. 

    She stressed that the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, in Ogun State is a testament to his capabilities.

    NANS noted further that Olopade has espoused ideas that have transformed sports in Nigeria, and his support for NSC Chairman, Mallam Sheu Dikko, has been instrumental in repositioning the Commission.

    The Association cited the sterling performance of the Super Eagles at the African Nations Cup (AFCON) in Morocco as evidence of the harmonious working relationship between Dikko and Olopade, which has created a conducive environment for sports development in the country.

    “The sterling performance of the nation’s national male football team, the Super Eagles at the just concluded African Nations Cup (AFCON) in Morocco is a testament to the harmonious working environment made possible by the duo of Dikko and Olopade.

    “NANS hails Olopade for his contributions and urges him to continue bringing out the best in Nigerian sports; he should not rest on his oars.”

  • NANS laments non-payment of SIWES allowances to students

    NANS laments non-payment of SIWES allowances to students

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed concerns over the failure of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to resolve the prolonged non-payment of Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) allowances owed to students across tertiary institutions nationwide.

    A statement by the Assistant Secretary General, National, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comr. Adejuwon Olatunji Emmanuel noted that for several years, thousands of students who dutifully participated in the SIWES programme have been denied their statutory entitlements.

    NANS said that despite repeated complaints, petitions, and engagements by students’ bodies and stakeholders, the situation has remained unresolved.

    The student body called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene by ordering a comprehensive forensic audit of SIWES funds and ensuring that all outstanding allowances are paid without further delay.

    It said, “We express deep outrage over the persistent and unjustifiable failure of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to resolve the prolonged non-payment of Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) allowances owed to Nigerian students across tertiary institutions nationwide.

    Read Also: 2026: NANS Southwest endorses APC’s Oyebamiji for Osun governorship

    “This failure has subjected students to severe financial hardship and has undermined the credibility of a programme established to promote skills acquisition, employability, and national workforce development.

    “Also, we hereby issue a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to take decisive action on this matter.

    “Failure to act within this period will be interpreted as institutional indifference to the plight of Nigerian students and will compel us to escalate its response through all democratic means available.

    “Furthermore, we call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to immediately invite the ITF leadership for a thorough investigation and explanation regarding the unpaid SIWES allowances. Nigerian students and the general public deserve a full account of how SIWES funds have been managed over the years.

    “Nigerian students should not continue to pay the price for administrative incompetence or institutional negligence. SIWES is not a privilege; it is a statutory entitlement. Any leadership that consistently fails to honour this obligation has failed its mandate.”

  • NANS makes U-turn, backs tax laws

    NANS makes U-turn, backs tax laws

    • …calls off planned nationwide protest

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has thrown its weight behind the implementation of the new tax laws, which took effect last week.

    The body said its new position was informed by engagements with officials from several government agencies and departments, including the National Assembly, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).

    The association therefore called off its proposed nationwide protest, earlier scheduled for 14th January 2025.

    The decision is contained in a communique issued at an expanded National Executive Council Meeting on Tuesday in Abuja and signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee and NANS President, Comr. Olushola Oladoja.

    The expanded NEC meeting was attended by members of the National Executive Council, NANS; National Association of University Students (NAUS) – President and Senate President; National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) – President and Senate President; National Association of Colleges of Education Students (NANCES) – President and Senate President; NANS Zonal Coordinators across the six geopolitical zones of the Federation; Joint Campus Council (JCC) Chairmen across the Federation; Association of Nigerian Female Students (ANFS) – National President and Secretary; National Association of Female Students (NAFS) – President and Secretary; Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele; selected student leaders, policy experts, and other critical stakeholders.

    The communique read in part, “After extensive deliberations, presentations, and engagements, the Expanded National Executive Council (ENEC) of NANS resolved as follows:

    “That the new Tax Reform Law is a deliberate and well-intentioned law aimed at improving Nigeria’s economy, strengthening institutional frameworks for revenue generation, with deliberate provisions to protect low-income earners and vulnerable citizens.

    “That the law does not target the poor; instead, it strengthens social protection while ensuring that higher-income earners contribute more equitably to national revenue, preventing lopsidedness and unnecessary tax burdens on a few.

    “That the Law provides for centralised revenue generation with a clear and transparent sharing formula across the Federal Government, State Governments, and Local Governments.

    “That the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) shall serve as ambassadors of public enlightenment, committed to educating Nigerians on the purpose, importance, and benefits of the Tax Reform Law to boost citizens’ confidence and trust in the Federal Government during the implementation of this Law.

    “That ENEC affirms the authenticity of the Tax Reform Law as officially released by the National Assembly following the conclusion of its investigation.

    Read Also: NANS hails Tunji-Ojo over easy passport processing for students in diaspora

    “That, consequent upon the above resolutions, NANS hereby calls off the proposed nationwide protest earlier scheduled for 14th January 2025.”

    The meeting passed a vote of confidence on the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, “for his leadership, professionalism, and contributions to Nigeria’s fiscal reforms, particularly in operationalising this novel reform.”

    It added, “ENEC also commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued foresight, intentional leadership, and unwavering commitment to the structural and economic transformation of the Nigerian State, particularly in the areas of fiscal policy reforms and economic stability.

    “Furthermore, NANS reiterates its thanks to Mr. President for his NELFUND initiative, which is increasing funding and access to tertiary education for Nigerian students and youths. These crucial initiatives are demonstrating their usefulness in transforming our educational system.

    “On this note, we also reaffirm our Vote of Confidence on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as we employ him to continue the good work that he has commenced in transforming the fortunes of our great country, Nigeria.”

  • NANS hails Tunji-Ojo over easy passport processing for students in diaspora

    NANS hails Tunji-Ojo over easy passport processing for students in diaspora

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for what it described as it’s outstanding efforts in ensuring easy passport processing for Nigerian students in diaspora. 

    NANS said the gesture has brought immense relief and joy to the students who have been facing difficulties in obtaining their passports.

    A statement by NANS Senate President, Comrade Usman Adamu Nagwaza commended the Minister for his dedication and commitment towards serving Nigerians, particularly students who are the future leaders of the country. 

    According to him, the minister’s efforts will go a long way in promoting welfare and interests of Nigerian students globally.

    “As the mother student body in the country, we are made proud to say that the easy passport processing has come at a time when Nigerian students in the diaspora are facing numerous challenges, including travel restrictions, visa denials, and other logistical issues. 

    “The minister’s intervention has provided a glimmer of hope for these students, we are using this medium to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide additional support and backup to the minister to enable him to continue his good work.

    “The association believes that with the president’s support, the minister can achieve even more in promoting the welfare of Nigerian students and citizens, and this way, other public servants will be inspired to follow suit in delivering their jobs effectively.

    “We are proud to associate with Honorable Bunmi Tunmi-Ojo and we highly salute his functionality. His dedication to serving the people and his commitment to making a positive impact on our lives has informed our confidence that the minister’s efforts will contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria. 

    “More-so, we are committed to working with the minister and the government to promote the welfare and interests of Nigerian students and citizens as we strongly believe that together, we can achieve great things and make Nigeria a better place for all.”

    He urged all Nigerian students in diaspora to take advantage of the easy passport processing to obtain their passports and pursue their academic and professional goals without any hindrance.

  • NANS urges Fed govt to ensure safe return of abducted students

    NANS urges Fed govt to ensure safe return of abducted students

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the Federal Government to ensure the safe rescue and return of all abducted students in Kebbi, Niger, and elsewhere.

    National President of NANS, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, who made the call on Monday at a news conference in Abuja, also urged the government to present a clear and verifiable plan for securing schools nationwide.

    The students’ body urged the government to implement immediate restructuring of the Safe School Initiative.

    The NANS president, who read the demands of the body, threatened to shut down major highways and airports in 14 days if these demands are not implemented.

    The students’ body also threatened to embark on peaceful mass demonstrations across the country.

    It called on the National Security Adviser, Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and Chiefs of Army Staff to probe the alleged withdrawal of military before the kidnapping of students in Kebbi state.

    “In view of the Kebbi incident where terrorists struck minutes after military withdrawal, NANS is deeply concerned about the possibility of internal sabotage,” the text of the press conference read.

    The NANS president said, “We can no longer stand by while terrorists destroy what remains of our education system. The era of silence and tolerance is over.

    “Conclusively, Nigeria is at a crossroads. The safety of our students is non-negotiable, and the future of our nation is at stake. NANS stands united, resolute, and ready to defend the Nigerian student identity—by dialogue if possible, and by mass civil action if necessary.

    “We mourn with the affected families, communities, and states. We demand justice. And we declare, unequivocally, that students’ lives matter, and this nation must act accordingly.”

    NANS also called for the removal of the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) “for the broad internal security collapse that has emboldened terrorists to repeatedly target schools and abduct students without deterrence.”

    It added: “The failure of these offices to effectively coordinate intelligence, enforce preventive security, and protect defenseless students is unacceptable. Nigeria must stop rewarding incompetence in matters of life and national stability.”

  • NANS seeks rescue, reintegration of abducted pupils

    NANS seeks rescue, reintegration of abducted pupils

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), under the mandate of its national leadership, has urged the federal government to expedite action on the rescue and reintegration of every abducted pupil, saying it must stand as an urgent national priority.

    A statement on Friday by its Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, stressed the need for the government to prioritise immediate, large-scale investments in modern surveillance systems, fortified community-based security frameworks, and the implementation of comprehensive rural protection policies.

    NANS described the abduction of pupils in Kebbi State as a grim testament to the escalating brutality of these “non-state actors”.

    It deplored the alarming and audacious invasion of a Catholic school in Niger State, stressing that it is a clear indication that academic environments long regarded as sanctuaries of learning have been transformed into epicentres of terror and profound insecurity.

    The student body said, “There must be a decisive shift from reactive operations to proactive, intelligence-driven, and strategically coordinated security interventions. Enhanced inter-agency collaboration is imperative to eliminate redundancies, improve rapid-response capabilities, and ensure continuous monitoring of at-risk educational zones.

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    The protection of schools and academic communities should be elevated to a central pillar of national security strategy.

    “The era of piecemeal interventions and reactionary measures must end. The government must demonstrate unequivocal political will by dismantling the operational networks, funding channels, and logistical lifelines of terror groups.

    NANS remains steadfast, vigilant, and uncompromising. While we mourn the tragic loss of innocent lives and pray earnestly for the swift and safe return of all abducted students and citizens, we reaffirm our commitment to sustained, constructive engagement with all relevant stakeholders. Our advocacy will remain formidable and unyielding until the security of every Nigerian student is guaranteed without ambiguity or exception.”

  • NANS condemns abduction of 25 pupils in Kebbi

    NANS condemns abduction of 25 pupils in Kebbi

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State where armed assailants invaded the school premises at dawn, brutally killed the Vice Principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and abducted 25 female students.

    NANS said the tragic incident, which happened on November, 17,  2025, a day globally dedicated to celebrating ‘International Students’ Day’, has broken its heart.

    A statement by NANS President, Comrade. Olushola Oladoja lamented that abduction of the young girls has reopened deep wounds in NANS memory.

    According to him, abduction of the students collectively underscores urgent need for robust preventive security strategies, rather than the usual reactive measures deployed only after lives have been destroyed and families shattered. 

    He said: “Our schools must never be playgrounds for terrorists; our daughters must never again be turned into bargaining chips in the hands of criminals.”

    NANS appealed to Federal Government, Kebbi State Government, and entire security architecture to deploy every available resource to ensure the immediate rescue of the abducted students.

    The student body demanded high end proactive security measures around all schools, especially girls’ boarding institutions.

    NANS also called for intelligence-driven operations that dismantle the criminal networks, enabling these mass abductions.

    “Students, particularly female student must never be targets of terror. We can not continue to allow young girls to be used as negotiation tools in the battle between the state and criminal elements. Enough is enough.

    “We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the slain Vice Principal, Mr. Hassan Yakubu Makuku, whose bravery in resisting the attackers, cost him his life. We also pray for the swift recovery of the injured staff member. 

    “Our hearts go out to the parents and families of the kidnapped students—we stand with you, we are as saddened as you are, and we join our voices in prayer for their safe, secure, and unharmed return.

    “As the apex students’ body in Nigeria, we had meticulously designed the 2025 International Students Day Celebration as a moment of honor, hope, and academic excellence—never imagining it would be overshadowed by such darkness.

    Read Also: FG vows swift rescue of abducted Kebbi schoolgirls, reaffirms duty to protect citizens

    “For this year’s event, NANS planned special national recognitions and awards for excellent student performance, including: 100,000 cash prize award for 10 best students in each faculty of the University of Abuj

    “A laptop prize for best performing students in the 2025 WAEC, NECO, and JAMB examinations. A ₦200,000 cash award for the Nigerian student who emerged winner of the TeenEagle International English Language Competition

    “Additional excellence recognitions for students who have shown outstanding leadership and innovation among others, but instead of celebration, the Nigerian student community was thrown into yet another panic.

    “On this International Students Day, instead of celebration, we stand united in grief, in solidarity, and in our collective resolve to protect every Nigerian student.”

  • Southwest NANS hails Davido’s appointment as Osun Sports Trust Fund Chairman

    Southwest NANS hails Davido’s appointment as Osun Sports Trust Fund Chairman

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke over the appointment of Afrobeat icon, David Adeleke (Davido), as Chairman of the Osun State Sports Trust Fund. 

    The student body said the appointment was not only a bold step toward sports development but also a rare blend of influence, innovation and excellence in governance.

    A statement by Assistant General Secretary of NANS (Southwest), Comr. Adeyemo Josiah Kayode said the inclusion of Davido, a household name and international figure in Adeleke’s administration’s is a clear signal that Osun State is redefining leadership, embracing youth potential, and unlocking the creative and philanthropic strength of its citizens.

    Adeyemo said the decision of the Governor demonstrated deep understanding of how celebrity influence can drive sustainable funding, global partnerships, and renewed passion for sports among young people in the state and beyond.

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    According to him: “We are equally elated by the state government’s unwavering commitment to completing the Osogbo Township Stadium to Olympic standards, a landmark that will boost youth engagement, talent development, and socio-economic growth. 

    “Furthermore, the proposed establishment of the Osun State Sports Commission is a commendable policy framework that shows the government’s dedication to long-term sports management, infrastructure development, and institutional excellence.

    “As representatives of millions of Nigerian students, we affirm that this initiative has not gone unnoticed. The student community across the Southwest stands in full admiration and support of this forward-thinking stride. 

    “We salute the Adeleke-led administration for continually giving room for youth inclusion and practical development. We look forward to collaborative platforms where students can also contribute to this sports revolution. Osun is truly rising, and history will be kind to this administration.”

  • NANS accuses oil import cabal of sabotaging industrial revival

    NANS accuses oil import cabal of sabotaging industrial revival

    Members of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have rallied in Asaba, Delta State, to express their discontent over what they termed “Petroleum Industry Revitalization Sabotage.” 

    They alleged that powerful interests were unde​rmining efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum refining in country.

    The protesters were vocal with their demands, chanting solidarity songs and displaying a variety of placards such as “Supporting Dangote is Supporting Nigeria’s Economy,” “Stop the War Against Local Industry,” “No to Wickedness in High Places,” and “Defend National Development.” 

    Marching from Summit Junction in Asaba towards the Asaba International Airport, the students vowed to fight against any attempts to hinder the growth of Nigeria’s emerging private refinery sector. 

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    They indicated that the peaceful rally was to highlight ongoing tensions surrounding Nigeria’s petroleum industry and the struggles for local industry support amidst broader economic challenges.

    Addressing the protesters, NANS National President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, who spoke through the association’s National Financial Secretary, Comrade Jeremiah Friday Ohomah, declared that Nigerian students would no longer “watch enemies of progress sabotage the revitalization of the nation’s petroleum industry.”

    “Nigeria is blessed with abundant crude oil, yet we remain a paradoxical importer of refined petroleum products. Our refineries in Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri were deliberately crippled through decades of sabotage, mismanagement, and collusion between local and foreign oil interests.

  • NANS, NGO unveil online learning platform

    NANS, NGO unveil online learning platform

    A non-governmental organisation, Iykon Global Foundation, in collaboration with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has officially unveiled a web-based  test engine system and online learning for Nigerian students, both at secondary and  undergraduate levels.

    It is aimed at enabling students to excel in their educational pursuits and reduce the incidents of abysmal failures.

    Speaking during the unveiling of learning platform in Asaba, Delta State capital yesterday, the Executive Director, Iykon Global Foundation, Ambassador Ephraim Ikechukwu Nwonu, said the essence of the initiative was to assist Nigerian students to enable them to pass their examinations with ease and reduce the incidents of failures among students in WAEC, NECO, JAMB and other examining bodies.

    He also said the platform would keep the students well informed and also to complement President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitments to improving education in his Renewed Hope Agenda policy.

    Nwonu said: “The whole essence of this initiative is to assist Nigerian students to be able to pass their examinations, including job seekers to be well informed ahead.

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    “Also, the initiative will go a long way in complementing the wonderful commitments of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the education sector. I also commend the President for the NELFUND programme for students to have access to education.

    “It is expected that this initiative will serve as an antidote to JAMB, WAEC, and NECO examinations’ abysmal failure, especially in recent times. Job seekers and graduates can also benefit from this all-important initiative.”

    Also speaking during the flag off, the President of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Olushola Oladoja, said the web-based test engine system speaks directly to the struggle and advocacy for students to have  access to qualitative and affordable education  enhanced by technology. He added that the  initiative was not just a project but  a tool for empowerment, a bridge to excellence, and a strategic response to the evolving educational demands of the 21st century.

    He maintained that Nigerian  students had been constrained by inadequate learning resources, poor access to practical platforms, and the gap between classroom knowledge and exams preparedness.