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Tag: NANS

  • NANS seeks end to hostilities against Dangote Refinery

    NANS seeks end to hostilities against Dangote Refinery

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged stakeholders to halt hostilities against Dangote Refinery in the interest of national development.

    Reacting to a publication reportedly circulated by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) against the refinery, NANS described the situation as troubling.

    In a statement, NANS national president, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, said any patriotic Nigerian concerned about the country’s growth must question the persistent face-offs between the refinery and various industry bodies.

    “Is it not worrisome that since the refinery commenced full operations, different associations such as the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have engaged in one form of face-off or another with the Dangote Refinery?” he asked.

    Oladoja lamented that the repeated clashes, which appear targeted at frustrating and crippling the refinery, are deeply concerning and must be addressed without delay.

    “In the country today, petroleum products are both essential and fundamental, as they impact virtually every citizen through their use in industry, transportation, power generation, domestic activities, and more.

    “As such, they play a pivotal role in driving the economy. We have all seen and experienced the adverse effects of fuel scarcity on the lives of citizens and on the economy at large; it is a troubling and frustrating reality that disrupts livelihoods and national productivity.

    Read Also: NANS seeks FG intervention over Dangote Refinery, NUPENG feud

    “Moving forward, let us not forget that before the establishment of the Dangote Refinery, Nigeria, despite being a major crude oil producer, imported over 90 percent of its refined petroleum products (petrol, diesel, kerosene, and jet fuel), spending billions of dollars annually on imports.

    “To the country’s advantage, the Dangote Refinery has significantly reduced Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel, thereby boosting the nation’s energy independence and saving the country from spending billions of dollars on importation every year.

    “The outrageous amounts previously spent on importation are now being redirected towards infrastructure, agriculture, education, and overall national development. It is therefore the responsibility of all patriotic Nigerians to support the refinery and not frustrate its operations, as has been witnessed in certain quarters since it commenced full operations.

    “Furthermore, the Dangote Refinery has helped stabilize fuel supply and reduce scarcity. With a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery is the largest single-train refinery in the world. Its operations are improving local fuel availability, reducing recurring shortages, and easing queues at filling stations.

    “Nigerians are already benefiting from the stable supply of petroleum products. The absence of fuel scarcity brings numerous benefits to the nation. It ensures stable transportation costs, boosts economic activities, and supports uninterrupted power generation for homes and industries.

    “It also helps curb inflation by keeping the prices of goods and services stable, promotes national security by preventing panic buying and black market activities, and enhances investor confidence through a predictable business environment. Ultimately, steady fuel availability improves the quality of life for citizens and enables more effective government planning and implementation of development policies.

    “The Dangote Refinery is helping the country save billions of dollars annually on importation by refining petroleum products locally. This has, in turn, stabilized foreign exchange, strengthened the naira, and improved the country’s foreign reserves.

    “The refinery has also created thousands of jobs for Nigerians across various sectors, thereby boosting economic growth and promoting industrialization. In a nutshell, the Dangote Refinery is not just a private venture; it is a national asset. It strengthens energy security, creates jobs, boosts revenue, drives industrial growth, and positions Nigeria as a major refining power in Africa.

    “To this end, considering the significant impact of the Dangote Refinery on Nigerians and the nation’s economy, the leadership of NANS calls on all stakeholders, sectors, and associations that are frustrating the operations of the refinery to put an end to the ongoing face-off in the overall interest of the country and its citizens. As true Nigerian patriots, it is our collective responsibility to build a prosperous nation.”

  • NANS lauds river basin chief, condemns unwarranted attacks

    NANS lauds river basin chief, condemns unwarranted attacks

    National Association of Nigerian Students has lauded Managing Director/Chief Executive of Ogun Osun River Basin Development Authority, Adedeji Ashiru, for repositioning the agency since he took over.

    The union, in a statement by National Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Ajasa, noted Ashiru has made positive impact since he assumed office.

    “National Association of Nigerian Students, umbrella body of Nigerian students home and abroad, passes a vote of confidence in the leadership of Managing Director/Chief Executive of Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority), Adedeji Ashiru.

    “Ashiru’s administration has set laudable standards in public service, with achievements in rural development, youth empowerment, and infrastructural renewals.

    “His focused leadership and strategic reforms have revitalised the agency and brought impact to lives of Nigerians, particularly in water resource management and agricultural development.

    “NANS has monitored activities and performance of the agency under Ashiru and is satisfied with the transparency, efficiency, and commitment to its core mandate. His leadership is people-centred, student-friendly, and driven by a vision of sustainable growth and service delivery.’’

    Read Also: NANS slams Adeleke for deploying 1,750 ‘untrained’ youths as teachers

    “We condemn attempts by unscrupulous elements to sabotage or distract this leadership through blackmail, misinformation, or politically motivated attacks. Such actions are regressive, unpatriotic, and will be met with resistance.

    “NANS warns those behind these plots to desist. The student community will not fold its arms while a performing public servant is being witch-hunt for doing his job.

    “We urge relevant authorities, community stakeholders, and civil society to support Ashiru as he carries out his duties diligently.’’

    At this point in our national development, Nigeria needs more leaders like him focused, accountable, and development-oriented.

    “Once again, NANS officially passes a Vote of Confidence on Engr. Adedeji Ashiru and calls on the general public to disregard any sponsored falsehoods or campaigns of calumny. We stand in solidarity with his leadership and reaffirm our commitment to defending truth, justice, and progress.”

  • NANS honours Avohi Yusuf with national outstanding leadership award

    NANS honours Avohi Yusuf with national outstanding leadership award

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Kogi State Axis, has presented the 2025 National Outstanding Leadership Award to Hon. Engr. Muhammed Avohi Yusuf, the Kogi State Commissioner for Works, naming him an “Icon of Hope for Nigerian Students.”

    The award recognises Hon. Yusuf’s exceptional contributions to societal development, commitment to public service, and student-friendly policies both within his ministry and across the state.

    Speaking at the award ceremony, Yusuf expressed deep gratitude to NANS for the honour, dedicating the award to his continued service to humanity.

    Read Also: Africa must shape, not just receive digital future — Speaker Abbas

    He also acknowledged the roles played by former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello and the current Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, in shaping his journey and providing opportunities for impactful leadership.

    Encouraging the student community to remain supportive of the state government’s efforts, Yusuf stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable progress and development.

    The recognition further cements Hon. Yusuf’s reputation as a student-focused leader and a key player in advancing the welfare of young people and the broader development agenda in Kogi State.

  • NANS hails Osun deputy speaker Oyewusi for championing education, student welfare

    NANS hails Osun deputy speaker Oyewusi for championing education, student welfare

    The General Secretary of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC), Ondo Axis, Comrade Oladele Oluwafemi, has commended the Deputy Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Akinyode Abidemi Oyewusi, for his unwavering commitment to education, student welfare, and youth empowerment.

    In a statement released by Oladele, he described Oyewusi, who represents Ife North State Constituency, as a lawmaker deeply attuned to the challenges facing Nigerian students. He praised the Deputy Speaker’s consistent efforts in promoting quality education and addressing issues affecting students across various levels.

    “Hon. Oyewusi has shown exemplary dedication to the educational sector. His initiatives and interventions have had a lasting impact, and his contributions remain invaluable,” Oladele said.

    He further highlighted Oyewusi’s role as a strong advocate for student rights, noting that the legislator has remained a vocal voice in pushing for policies and programmes that uplift the academic and social well-being of Nigerian students.

    “I am particularly impressed by Rt. Hon. Oyewusi’s ability to translate his vision for education into tangible results. Through his legislative efforts, he has been able to drive positive change in the educational sector, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. His selfless service to the student community is a testament to his character and commitment to public service.

    Read Also: NANS, AAUA students leaders meet Ondo Police Commissioner over rising insecurity

    “As a leader, Rt. Hon. Oyewusi has been a mentor and role model to many students, providing guidance and support to those who seek to make a difference in their communities. His leadership style is characterised by empathy, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the needs of students. I am confident that his contributions to education and student unionism will continue to inspire a new generation of leaders.

    “On behalf of NANS JCC Ondo Axis and all students’ structures in Ife North, I commend Rt. Hon. Oyewusi for his tireless efforts to promote education and student welfare. His dedication to the cause is a shining example of what it means to serve with passion and purpose. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Rt. Hon. Oyewusi, working together to build a brighter future for Nigerian students.

    “Oyewusi’s recognition as a hero of 21st-century student unionism and educational advancement is a testament to his outstanding contributions to the educational sector. I am honoured to have him as a representative of our constituency, and I pledge our continued support for his initiatives.”

  • NANS, AAUA students leaders meet Ondo Police Commissioner over rising insecurity

    NANS, AAUA students leaders meet Ondo Police Commissioner over rising insecurity

    The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) JCC Ondo Axis and  Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko Students Union Leaders had met with Ondo Commissioner of Police over rising insecurity in Akungba community.

    A statement by NANS Chairman, Ondo Axis, Com. Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua said the primary objective of the meeting was to present requests that would address security concerns in Akungba community.

    According to him, part of the demand of the students was firm and thorough investigation into the case of the missing students.

    He said:”The police were urged to ensure that justice is pursued swiftly and without compromise.

    “We want redeployment of more competent police officers to the Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko (AAUA) community, to increase safety and security.

    “We want replacement of the Patrol vehicle at the Akungba divisional police station, to enhance police mobility and efficiency.

    “In addition to these measures, we also proposed the following initiatives to foster better relations between the police and the students: The organization of a security conference at AAUA, to provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving safety in the community.

    “Implementation of a Police-Student Relations Committee in AAUA, which would facilitate open dialogue and collaboration between the police and the student population.

    Read Also: NANS rallies support for NNPC

    “The meeting was productive, with several outcomes being decided upon to ensure the safety and security of the community. The Commissioner agreed to deploy more competent police officers to the AAUA community and to replace the Patrol vehicle at the Akungba divisional police station to enhance police mobility and efficiency.

    “The progress made during this meeting serves as a testament to the power of unified voices in creating positive change. The leadership of NANS JCC Ondo Axis and AAUA Students Union Leaders will continue to work closely with the Commissioner of Police to ensure that the measures taken are effective and sustainable. 

    “Our vision for the Akungba community is one of safety, security, and unity, and we will not rest until that vision becomes a reality.

    “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Commissioner of Police for his time and willingness to listen to our concerns. His receptiveness to our requests demonstrates his commitment to addressing the safety issues facing the Akungba community, and we appreciate his efforts to find viable solutions.

    “Moving forward, the students of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba can take comfort in the fact that their concerns have been heard and steps are being taken to ensure a safer and more secure environment. 

    “This is only the beginning, but with continued collaboration and vigilance, we can create a community that thrives in peace and prosperity.”

    He urged all students to report any suspicious activity to appropriate authorities, adding that “together, we can build a community where everyone feels safe, respected, and included.”

  • Wike meets area council chairmen, NUT, NANs over teachers’ strike 

    Wike meets area council chairmen, NUT, NANs over teachers’ strike 

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, will meet with chairmen of FCT area councils, leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and National Association of Nigeria Students (NANs) on Thursday.

    The meeting, according to a statement by NANs in Abuja on Wednesday, is to finalise modalities for the reopening of all public primary schools in the FCT.

    The statement was signed by NANs National President, Olushola Oladoja and the association’s National Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Ajasa.

    The association explained that it had earlier resolved to stage a mass protest Wednesday morning at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Secretariat.

    It added that its leadership was invited to a high-level engagement at the Department of State Services (DSS) Headquarters, where the issues at hand were thoroughly discussed in the interest of national security and students’ welfare.

    It said that the first meeting at the DSS paved the way for a second strategic meeting with the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on FCT, Muktar Betara.

    NANs said that the engagement revealed the root causes of the ongoing industrial action by the NUT and the efforts made thus far by the Wike-led FCTA.

    It added that a third meeting was held with Wike on Tuesday, where the minister explained the issues at hand.

    “That the FCT remains the only unit of the federation operating full local government autonomy, hence all salary payments, including that of primary school teachers, are the sole responsibility of the area councils.

    “The FCT Administration is not directly responsible for the backlog of teachers’ salaries and therefore should not be held solely accountable for the inadequacies of the area councils.

    “In a show of responsibility and commitment to resolving the crisis, Wike intervened by proposing a bailout—with FCTA offering to pay 60 per cent of the outstanding arrears while the area councils cover the remaining 40 per cent.

    “When it became clear that this arrangement was not yielding desired results, the FCT minister withheld the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the area councils for the months of May and June, with a plan to utilize these funds to make up the 40 per cent requested of area council to clear the outstanding arrears owed to teachers.

    Read Also: Alleged land allocation to Wike’s children in FCT sponsored blackmail – Aide 

    “That based on this intervention, it was expected that the two-month arrears withheld be ready before the end of the week,” it said.

    The association said that based on the productive engagements and emerging progress, it hereby suspends the planned protest while keeping close tabs on the implementation of all resolutions reached.

    “We reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights of Nigerian students and ensuring that no child is denied access to education due to governmental lapses,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • NANS rallies support for NNPC

    NANS rallies support for NNPC

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) ZONE D has rallied support for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) over alleged sabotage attacks on the firm.

    The body said as voice of students across the South West geopolitical zone, it firmly aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda is boldly redefining governance in the petroleum sector.

    The NNPC Ltd said it has uncovered an emerging coordinated sabotage campaign by a syndicate of known and faceless actors, within and outside the organisation, spreading lies and misinformation simply to discredit the company’s leadership.

    But a statement by NANS zone D Coordinator, Comr. Owolewa Taiwo said the ongoing transformation of NNPC Ltd is not just necessary, but long overdue. 

    According to him, the days of unchecked corruption, inefficiency, and exploitation must be permanently buried.

    He said: “Let it be clearly stated, the students of Southwest Nigeria under NANS ZONE D will not fold their arms while a few disgruntled elements try to take the nation backward. 

    Read Also: We’re under attack by saboteurs, NNPC management cries out

    “Should these saboteurs fail to cease their campaign of calumny and betrayal, we will mobilize Nigerian students in their thousands for a peaceful but firm resistance. We will not allow the enemies of progress to hijack the future the President Tinubu government is working so hard to secure.

    “This is corruption fighting back, but we, the students of Nigeria, stand ready to fight back with truth, unity, and unwavering resolve.

    “We therefore call on all progressive citizens, civil society organizations, student leaders, and media practitioners across the country to rise in defense of this national interest. The petroleum sector is too strategic to be left in the hands of those who prosper in chaos.

    “We salute the management of NNPC Ltd. for their courage and focus, and we reaffirm our loyalty to the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.”

  • NICTM, UNIBEN emerge winners in NANS quiz competition

    NICTM, UNIBEN emerge winners in NANS quiz competition

    The National Institute of Construction Technology and Management (NICTM), Uromi, has won the maiden edition of the inter-school quiz competition organized by the Edo axis Joint Campus Council (JCC) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Edo State Axis.

    Participating institutions displayed their ideas and academic depth on the topic, “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats.”

    The quiz competition held at the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, ended in a tie between NICTM and the University of Benin (UNIBEN).

    Judges invoked a tie-breaker round to determine the winner and the NICTM emerged winner to earn the grand prize of ₦300,000.

    Students of UNIBEN took the second position with a prize of ₦200,000 while the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, came third and received ₦100,000.

    Read Also: NANS, NAPS make u-turn on NMDPRA protest, cites unverified information

    Acting Zonal Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Directorate, Effa Okim, urged students to harness digital platforms for knowledge, entrepreneurship, and positive influence, rather than as tools for crime or deceit.

    Okim, who spoke on the topic, “Use the Cyberspace Positively”, said the internet was not just a playground but a powerful tool to build, and enlighten.

    Senior Special Assistant to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Student Matters

    Comrade Jimah Mubarak, said the remained committed to securing educational spaces in the state.

    He said Okpebholo’s SHINE agenda places premium value on youth empowerment, education, and security.

    Edo State Chairman of NANS JCC, Comrade Ojumoola Miracle, said intellectual excellence has became the new protest.

    He said the quiz competition was to create a platform where academic excellence, critical thinking, and constructive engagement could be celebrated and rewarded among Nigerian students.

    “We believe that fostering a culture of scholarship and collaboration among students can combat many of the vices plaguing campuses today. This event was a call to elevate the standard of student unionism in Edo State,” he added. 

  • NANS, NAPS make u-turn on NMDPRA protest, cites unverified information

    NANS, NAPS make u-turn on NMDPRA protest, cites unverified information

    In a dramatic turn of events, two prominent student unions in Nigeria have withdrawn calls for protests against the leadership of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) had initially issued separate letters to the NMDPRA CEO, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, demanding his resignation and accusing him of mismanagement of public funds, job as well as contract racketeering, and abuse of office.

    The letters, dated May 27, 2025, had threatened to mobilise millions of students across the country to protest against the NMDPRA leadership.

    NANS had slated June 4-5 for a clarification visit to the NMDPRA headquarters while NAPS set June 12, 2025, as the date for the planned protest.

    However, in a sudden reversal, both unions have withdrawn their demands and protest notices.

    In a letter dated June 2, 2025, NANS through Comrade Opeyemi Samson Ajasa apologised for any inconvenience caused by its earlier statement, citing further investigations and engagements with stakeholders that revealed the allegations were based on unverified information.

    “We have discovered that the issues raised in our earlier correspondence are unfounded, misleading, and do not accurately reflect the true state of affairs within the agency,” Comrade Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, NANS Public Relations Officer, said in the letter.

    “We wish to reaffirm our readiness to collaborate with Engr. Farouk Ahmed and the NMDPRA to bridge the communication gap between the youth and student constituency and the agency.

    Read Also: Otedola eulogises Tinubu, describes President as history maker

    “We understand that our earlier letter was based on incomplete information, and we regret any harm it may have caused,” Comrade Ajasa added.

    “We are committed to working with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed in a constructive and peaceful manner.”

    “NANS is committed to upholding the values of truth, fairness, and constructive engagement,” Comrade Ajasa emphasized.

    “We believe that dialogue and cooperation are essential in resolving issues, and we are willing to work with the NMDPRA leadership to achieve this goal.”

    NAPS also withdrew its protest notice in a letter dated May 3, 2025, signed by Comr. Eshiofune Paul Oghayan.

    The union cited the need for constructive dialogue and responsible engagement with the NMDPRA leadership, rather than resorting to protests.

    “We believe that protests should be a last resort, and we are willing to engage with the NMDPRA leadership to resolve our concerns,” Oghayan said.

    “We are committed to seeking truth and justice, and we will work with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed.”

    “As student leaders, we have a responsibility to our members to ensure that their interests are protected and promoted,” Oghayan added.

    “We will continue to engage with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed in a constructive and peaceful manner.”

    “NAPS is committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the management of public institutions,” Oghayan emphasised.

    “We will continue to work with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed and that the interests of our members are protected.”

  • Students demand payment of SIWES allowance backlog

    Students demand payment of SIWES allowance backlog

    Nigerian students have urged the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to pay the backlog allowance of their Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).

    The leadership of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS); National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS); National Association of University Students (NAUS), and the National Association of Nigerian Colleges of Education Students (NANCES) made the appeal in a joint statement signed by NANS President Comrade Olushola Oladoja on Friday.

    The statement said that thousands of Nigerian students who have participated in the SIWES programme since 2018 have not received their allowances.

    According to the statement, these unpaid stipends have caused immense hardship, discouraged student participation, and made a mockery of a programme designed to prepare students for industrial relevance.

    The student leaders, however, lauded the present director-general of ITF for reforming the SIWES programme.

    Some of the reforms included: cancellation of student log book; Student Representation in SIWES Committees; elimination of fraudulent practices and prompt payment of monthly stipends.

    Read Also: ITF disburses N2b for SIWES

    The statement said, “Since the inception of the new leadership of NANS under the stewardship of Comrade Olushola Oladoja, we have prioritised the welfare, rights, and entitlements of Nigerian students. A key area of concern has been the plight of students engaged in SIWES, particularly with regard to supervision quality, allowance payment, and systemic inefficiencies that have plagued the scheme for years.

    “NANS and other sister unions have consistently engaged successive leaderships of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to resolve these issues. These engagements, however, yielded little or no tangible results until the emergence of the current Director-General.

    “We wish to categorically acknowledge and commend the dynamic, proactive, and student-friendly approach of the incumbent ITF management under the new Director-General. Under his visionary leadership, Nigerian students are beginning to witness a paradigm shift in SIWES implementation.”

    It added, “We appeal to all affected students to remain calm and exercise patience, as it is now evident that the new ITF leadership is truly committed to industrial and human capital development in line with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    “We sincerely appreciate His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the thoughtful appointment of such a dedicated, patriotic, and visionary Nigerian as Director-General of ITF. This singular appointment has rekindled hope and trust in the system.

    “We express our unwavering confidence in the patriotic zeal of the ITF DG to deliver on the mandate of building a productive, competent, and employable youth population through SIWES.”