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  • NANS applauds Minister of Interior for e-Gate system launch

    NANS applauds Minister of Interior for e-Gate system launch

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has hailed the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the successful launch of the e-Gate system.

    The body described the introduction of the e-Gate system as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward modernizing border management and enhancing national security.

    NANS Senate President Akinteye Babatunde, in a statement at the 86th National Senate Sitting and Pre-Convention held at Lagos State University, Ojo, said the groundbreaking technology aligns with global best practices, showcasing the Ministry of Interior’s commitment to leveraging innovation for the benefit of Nigerians.

    He said: “We lauded the Honorable Minister for his visionary leadership and dedication to transforming critical aspects of the Interior Ministry. The e-Gate, as part of the Integrated Border Management System, will facilitate seamless verification of travelers’ identities and ensure greater transparency, efficiency, and security in Nigeria’s immigration processes.

    “We also note that this initiative will positively impact students, particularly those pursuing opportunities abroad. Reduced delays and the enhanced ease of movement will foster academic and cultural exchange, reflecting the nation’s commitment to supporting youth development.

    “We also commend the Ministry of Interior for addressing long-standing challenges, such as the recent clearance of over 200,000 passport backlogs. These achievements underscore a proactive and student-friendly administration that prioritizes the welfare of all Nigerians.

    “We express confidence that such advancements will bolster Nigeria’s global reputation while improving the overall experience for citizens and visitors alike.

    He, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose continued backing for the Minister has been instrumental in the success of such transformative initiatives.

    He noted that Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to ensure the effective functioning of key government sectors, including the Ministry of Interior, is a testament to his dedication to national progress and development.

    He therefore said NANS remained committed to partnering with key stakeholders to promote policies and programs that benefit Nigerian students, assuring full support of NANS in advancing initiatives that foster national development.

  • NANS applauds Seyi Tinubu, NOELLA Foundation for empowering students, others

    NANS applauds Seyi Tinubu, NOELLA Foundation for empowering students, others

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has hailed Seyi Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment, healthcare improvement, educational advancement and hunger eradication across Nigeria. 

     A statement by NANS Senate President Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, explained Tinubu through his foundation NOELLA Foundation  has equipped  students and youths with  skills, mentorship, and networks they need to build meaningful careers and become self-reliant contributors to society.

    It said with the “Life After School” summit and a wide range of empowerment programmes, the Foundation has demonstrated itself as a champion for vulnerable communities and a beacon of hope for sustainable development.

    NANS hailed the foundation for creating a pathway for youths to secure a promising future by reducing barriers to employability and fostering economic empowerment for future generations.

    The student association said: “The  Foundation’s initiatives cut across multiple essential areas, including youth empowerment, support for widows, health programs, education for underprivileged children, and combating food insecurity. Their multifaceted approach is a testament to the organization’s commitment to addressing pressing societal issues from the grassroots level.

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    “More importantly, education remains a critical component of NOELLA Foundation’s mission, and its goal over the next decade is to prioritize primary and secondary education access for children from low-income families and impoverished communities. By providing after-school support and developing various educational initiatives, NOELLA Foundation ensures that young and vulnerable children are granted opportunities to learn and grow. We however stand with the Foundation in its vision to ensure every Nigerian child has access to quality education, recognizing that an educated society is the foundation of national development.

    “The Foundation’s commitment to healthcare goes beyond traditional charity work, focusing on specific issues that impact the most vulnerable, including maternal health, teen pregnancies, and the management of sickle cell disease. Recognizing the immense challenges in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, NOELLA Foundation aims to support over 10,000 pregnant women by 2025, a bold target that speaks to its dedication to reducing maternal and child mortality and improving overall healthcare outcomes. We are encouraged by NOELLA’s proactive stance in addressing these critical health issues and applauds its impact on community health and wellness.

    “In response to Nigeria’s alarming rates of food insecurity, NOELLA Foundation’s hunger eradication initiatives focus on providing nutritious meals to children and families in need. Partnering with communities, schools, and other organizations, the Foundation is making strides to ensure that individuals from underserved communities are not left to suffer from hunger. This initiative aligns with the global fight against hunger and addresses one of the most fundamental challenges facing Nigeria today.

    As we advance, NANS is committed to working alongside NOELLA to enhance education, healthcare, employability, and food security for all Nigerians, contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future.”

  • NANS threatens to shutdown UNILAG over fee hikes

    NANS threatens to shutdown UNILAG over fee hikes

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has threatened to shutdown the University of Lagos (UNILAG) if management of the institution remains rigid in its stance over fee increment.

    NANS said it will not tolerate exploitative increments, noting that If UNILAG proceeds with implementing the fee hike, it will take actions. 

    A statement by NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, said NANS will convene a National Congress on UNILAG’s campus, which will not disband until Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the institution is reinstated and genuine fee review process implemented. 

    According to him, the Congress will serve as a platform for students across Nigeria to come together and demand fair treatment, commitment to affordable and quality education.

    He maintained that cost of education in Nigeria cannot continue to escalate unchecked, particularly when students receive little to no improvement in facilities or services, as demonstrated by the ongoing issues with basic amenities on campus.

    According to him: “We call on UNILAG management to engage in transparent dialogue and a responsible approach that prioritizes students’ welfare and academic success. Anything less will be met with united resistance from the entire student body.

    “We also urge all stakeholders to remember that education is a right, not a privilege. We remain resolute in our mission to ensure that the voices of Nigerian students are heard, and that access to education remains equitable and fair.

    “In response to the resolutions reached at the recent meeting between the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management and student representatives, we categorically deny any agreement to an annual upward review of student fees. 

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    “The claim that student representatives accepted this proposal is false, and we strongly denounce any attempt to use this misinformation to justify fee increases that burden students and their families.

    “We stand firmly with UNILAG students in opposing these imposed hikes in school and hostel fees. The claim of financial necessity cannot and must not be used to exploit students, especially when the increase significantly affects access to education for thousands of Nigerian youths. 

    “The management’s suggestion that students uncomfortable with hostel fees should opt for off-campus accommodation is not only insensitive but disregards the financial strain already faced by students.”

  • NANS hails Tinubu over redeployment of Alausa as Education Minister

    NANS hails Tinubu over redeployment of Alausa as Education Minister

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), West Africa Affairs has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for redeplpying Dr. Tunji Alausa as Minister of Education.

    The body expressed confidence that Alausa’s wealth of experience, dedication and passion for advancing education sector will bring about positive reforms in coming years.

    A statement by the Director, West Africa Affairs NANS Diaspora, Com. Joshua Olakunle also congratulated Alausa on his redeployment, saying under his leadership, students will witness transformative changes that will further enhance quality of education, ensuring its accessibility, inclusivity, and global competitiveness.

    He appealed to Alausa to revisit the ban on recognition of certificates from institutions in Togo and Benin Republics, saying the decision has affected large number of students and parents who have invested significant resources in their children’s education in these countries. 

    According to him, suspension of certificates from these institutions has created uncertainty and emotional distress for both students and parents who are now faced with possibility of their years of academic pursuit being nullified.

    He said: “We urge you to consider the financial implications and the sacrifices made by Nigerian families, many of whom took loans and other financial risks to provide their children with quality education outside the country. 

    “By lifting this ban, you would be offering these students a second chance to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development without their academic achievements being invalidated.

    “While we understand the need for standards and regulations, we appeal for a balanced approach that considers the future of thousands of students who are affected by this ban. We believe that with your proactive leadership, a solution that safeguards educational standards and recognizes these institutions can be reached.

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    “Furthermore, we would like to express that NANS Diaspora is ready and willing to work collaboratively with your office to help put in place the necessary academic standards for institutions in Togo and Benin Republics. 

    “We are committed to ensuring that Nigerian students studying in these countries receive quality education that meets internationally recognized benchmarks. Together, we can establish systems that uphold educational excellence while protecting the interests of Nigerian students abroad.

    “We trust that your administration will find a balanced solution that benefits all stakeholders, and we look forward to working with you in this regard. We wish you a successful and impactful tenure.”

  • NANS Senate President orders suspension of zone B electoral process

    NANS Senate President orders suspension of zone B electoral process

    The Senate President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Akinteye Babatunde Afeez has ordered immediate suspension of the ongoing NANS Zone B electoral process.

    The order followed a petition from the NANS National President, citing multiple grievances related to alleged irregularities.

    The petition, dated October 12, 2024 with reference number NANS/VOL1/GA1/A215, highlights concerns by various Students’ Union Government Presidents and electoral aspirants within Zone B (South-South Zone). 

    The grievances centre around the transparency, inclusivity and credibility of the convention and electoral process.

    A statement by the NANS Senate President issued formal directive to the Convention Planning Committee (CPC) through the Zonal Coordinator of NANS Zone B, calling for immediate halt to the electoral proceedings. 

    Read Also: Southwest NANS inducts University Don, Olaiya as Grand Patron

    He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities to safeguard the integrity of the process.

    He explained the suspension was necessary to ensure that the rights of all eligible students are protected and to allow for full participation in a transparent and fair election. 

    He also announced formation of an unbiased investigative committee to examine key allegations which include denial of access to nomination forms for qualified aspirants, lack of transparency in the convention process, and adherence to NANS’ democratic values of fairness, inclusivity, and due process.

    The Senate President assured students in Zone B investigation would be conducted promptly and without bias, stating the electoral process would resume once these issues are resolved.

    Babatunde also gave the CPC a 48-hour ultimatum to suspend all electioneering activities and communicate the suspension to the Senate Secretariat, warning that failure to comply would lead to decisive actions from the Senate.

    He however reaffirmed NANS Senate leadership commitment to democracy, transparency, and accountability, urging all stakeholders to trust the process and ensure a just and credible election.

  • Southwest NANS inducts University Don, Olaiya as Grand Patron

    Southwest NANS inducts University Don, Olaiya as Grand Patron

    The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest has inducted Professor Taiwo Olaiya as its grand patron.

    NANS Southwest also felicitated its newly inducted Grand Patron on the success of his Inaugural Lecture held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun state.

    A statement by NANS Southwest co-ordinator, Com. Alao John said the two-in-one event marked a momentous occasion for students, the academic community, and the entire Southwest region.

    According to him, NANS Southwest is honoured to have inducted Professor Olaiya as the Grand Patron of the association, describing the honour as well-deserved recognition in appreciation of his fatherly role in supporting Nigerian students, particularly his capacity as the Governing Council Chairman of Federal Polytechnic, Ede.

    He said: “His influence was particularly instrumental in the reinstatement of students at the institution, a move that demonstrated his unwavering commitment to student welfare and educational rights.

    “His intervention in that critical moment of crisis reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring that students are not only protected but also provided with opportunities to continue their education without hindrance.

    Read Also: Nigeria @64: NANS asks FG to beef up security on campuses

    “The leadership of NANS Southwest acknowledges the pivotal role Professor Olaiya has played in advocating for justice and fairness for students across the region. His contributions extend beyond the classroom and into the lives of countless students whose futures have been positively impacted by his leadership and guidance.

    “We once again congratulate Professor Taiwo Akanbi Olaiya on his accomplishments, and we look forward to his continued mentorship and fatherly support as we work together to uplift and empower Nigerian students.

    “His induction as Grand Patron signifies the beginning of an even stronger partnership between the academic community and the student body, and we are confident that his leadership will continue to inspire greatness.

    “Professor Taiwo Akanbi Olaiya’s Inaugural Lecture was a remarkable display of his scholarly depth and his enduring contributions to the field of public administration. As an academic giant, his insights continue to serve as a source of inspiration for both colleagues and students alike.

    “His dedication to research and teaching has made a lasting impact on the academic landscape, and his lecture yesterday was a reminder of his unparalleled expertise and commitment to the advancement of knowledge.”

  • NANS Zone ‘A’ elects new executives, harps on students’ welfare

    NANS Zone ‘A’ elects new executives, harps on students’ welfare

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone ‘A’ has elected new executives to pilot its affairs for the 2024/2025 academic session across the zone.

    This was made known in a communique jointly signed by Dominic Philip, Chairman, Communique Drafting Committee and Ahmed Magaji, his deputy, issued after its 38th Elective Congress on Tuesday in Kaduna.

    According to the communique, the elected executives are ready to address the challenges facing Nigerian students and promote students’ welfare.

    The congress said it would continue to prioritise students’ welfare and advocate affordable education.

    ”We would work tirelessly to address the challenges facing Nigerian students, particularly the arbitrary increase in school fees and inadequate funding for education,” it said.

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    The communique said the zone comprises tertiary institutions from seven states in the North-West region, including Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto and Zamfara.

    “The congress resolved to urge the Federal Government to establish more Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion service stations across Nigeria.

    “It also called for the provision of CNG buses to tertiary institutions to ease transportation challenges on campuses within the Zone and beyond.

    “We commend the Federal Government for establishing the National Education Loan Fund, but we urge them to make it more accessi

  • Nigeria @64: NANS asks FG to beef up security on campuses

    Nigeria @64: NANS asks FG to beef up security on campuses

    As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Day, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has charged  the Federal Government  to beef up security in all campuses across the country. 

    NANS President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, who led several Nigerian students on an solidarity march today in Abuja commended the FG for the student loan scheme as well as the  CNG buses donated to students to ease transportation in all Nigerian campuses.

    He said they are not in support of any move to destabilise the country but to lend support to the FG and also pray for the success of the Bola Tinubu Administration. 

    Emonefe emphasised the significance of Independence Day, recalling the struggles and sacrifices of Nigeria’s forefathers who fought against colonialism. 

    He noted that while the country has made progress, there’s still much to be done, and it’s essential for citizens to rally around their leaders and country.

    Emonefe lamented that many Nigerians take their independence and existence as one country for granted, forgetting the brutish and merciless life lived by their grandfathers under colonialism. 

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    He stressed that supporting leaders is essential, even when disagreeing with their policies, as their failure is a collective one.

    He said: “In line with our desire to bolster a sense of pride in our country, especially among our students population, who are the future leaders, the national leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) plans a nationwide campaign to promote patriotism.

    “As the former American president and sage, John F Kennedy famously said in his inaugural speech as the 35th President of the United States, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country’.

    “These events are meant to express pride in our country, express gratitude to God for our survival despite all challenges and celebrate the milestones we have achieved. It is also a statement that we Nigerian students will not join forces with negative people who have evil intentions against this country. We cannot be deceived into putting our house on fire over whatever guise.”

    He emphasised that true patriotism involves supporting leaders while expressing reservations over specific actions or policies.

  • NANS gears up for 64th Independence day celebrations

    NANS gears up for 64th Independence day celebrations

    Nigeria is set to mark its 64th Independence Day on October 1 and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is pulling out all the stops to make it a memorable occasion. 

    Comrade Lucky Emonefe, NANS President, in a press conference on Thursday, announced a nationwide campaign to promote patriotism among students, who are the future leaders of the country.

    Emonefe emphasised the significance of Independence Day, recalling the struggles and sacrifices of Nigeria’s forefathers who fought against colonialism. 

    He noted that while the country has made progress, there’s still much to be done, and it’s essential for citizens to rally around their leaders and country.

    Emonefe lamented that many Nigerians take their independence and existence as one country for granted, forgetting the brutish and merciless life lived by their grandfathers under colonialism. 

    He stressed that supporting leaders is essential, even when disagreeing with their policies, as their failure is a collective one.

    To rekindle patriotism, NANS has planned various activities including special prayers that will be held in mosques and churches across campuses to pray for Nigeria’s prosperity and guidance for its leaders. 

    He said: “In line with our desire to bolster a sense of pride in our country, especially among our students population, who are the future leaders, the national leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) plans a nationwide campaign to promote patriotism. We are using the opportunity of the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations to pilot this plan through a serious of activities lined up nationwide.

    “As the former American president and sage, John F Kennedy famously said in his inaugural speech as the 35th President of the United States, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country’.

    “I am pleased to inform you that NANS under my leadership has planned a series of activities to ginger up our dear members, our respected students to own up their country and for us all to celebrate Nigeria in a grand way.

    “Aside this press conference and ongoing tour of campuses nationwide, I hereby direct all our comrade leaders across all tertiary institutions in Nigeria to convene special Friday prayers tomorrow in mosques tomorrow to pray for this great country. 

    “On Sunday, special prayers will also take place across all churches located on our campuses to pray to almighty God to protect our country, help it attain its full great greatness and direct our leaders aright. 

    “On Tuesday, being the Independence Day, mass rallies will hold on major campuses across the country to celebrate our dear motherland. The events would feature street carnival, Know-Your-Country quiz, cultural displays, among others.

    “In addition, on the same day, we will hold major convergence at the Unity Fountain in Abuja and at Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, Lagos, where students from major institutions around those two locations will hold an all-day programme to commemorate our Independence Day. 

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    “These events are meant to express pride in our country, express gratitude to God for our survival despite all challenges and celebrate the milestones we have achieved. It is also a statement that we Nigerian students will not join forces with negative people who have evil intentions against this country. We cannot be deceivdd into putting our house on fire over whatever guise. 

    “While we can express reservations over specific actions or policies of those who are in power today we will never allow any such difference to make us disparage out country and drag it down. That is not patriotism.“

    Emonefe urged students to participate en masse, demonstrating solidarity with their fatherland. 

    He emphasized that true patriotism involves supporting leaders while expressing reservations over specific actions or policies.

  • The NANS ultimatum

    The NANS ultimatum

    Like many things about Nigeria, there is no unanimity on anything anymore, except perhaps among labour union activists who all seem to lie in bed surrealistically facing the same direction. Just last Tuesday, a faction of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) issued an ultimatum to the federal government to reverse fuel price increase or face street protest on September 15. The ultimatum was almost immediately countermanded by another faction of NANS headed by Lucky Emonofe which decried its issuance, insisted it did not come from NANS, and suggested to the federal government to investigate its origin. 

    The Emonofe-led NANS went as far as hinting that a Southwest governor was sponsoring the other NANS faction to undermine the federal government. The students said: “We have uncovered that a part of this funding is being allocated for a program in Abeokuta, furthering this individual’s anti-government agenda. It is alarming that a state government would go to such lengths, utilising its resources to support and sponsor activities aimed at destabilising the Federal Government, particularly when this faceless agitator is benefiting from the very administration he seeks to undermine. NANS firmly believes that such actions are not only irresponsible but also dangerous.”

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    There will always be agitation, and, alas, the current administration has provided ample reasons for genuinely aggrieved and mercenary groups to organise protests and threaten mass action. Protest is sanctioned by the constitution, but the cavalier manner threats are being issued by sundry groups in the country, instead of protests specifically targeted at unwelcome policies and measures, indicates how deeply divided the country became after the last presidential election, how the embers of that election still burn, and how too many powerful interests appear determined and desperate to bring matters to a head regardless of the implications for national stability. That a faction of NANS seems willing to be bought is perhaps a reflection of how far the country is fraying at the edges.