The Nation Newspaper

Tag: NANS

  • NANS endorses Ighodalo for governor

    NANS endorses Ighodalo for governor

    The leadership of National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS), on Wednesday declared support for Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for the Sept. 21 governorship election.

    The Deputy Coordinator, NANS Zone B, Comrade Isaac Ogieva, who disclosed this to newsmen in Benin, said the decision was reached after due consultation with relevant stakeholders of the association.

    Ogieva noted that the stakeholders X-rayed the candidates of various political parties participating in

    the election before taken the position.

    He also attributed their decision to support the PDP candidate and his running mate because of their manifesto in education and willingness to uplift the welfare of Nigerian students resident in the state.

    Read Also: Why banks, others must join anti-terrorism battle, by NSA

    The NANS leader expressed satisfaction with the PDP manifesto in economy, agriculture, health, infrastructure, youth development and sports.

    He said: “Today, we get to speak our mind openly about the forthcoming governorship election.

    “It has been asserted by knowledgeable authorities that at times of fundamental changes anyone or group who sits on the fence is either a coward, traitor or both.

    “NANS and her members are neither of the above,” he said.

    Ogieva urged all Nigerian students in Edo to vote for lghodalo, adding that NANS leadership would bridge between students, if the PDP candidate was elected.

  • Protest not solution to recent fuel price hike – NANS

    Protest not solution to recent fuel price hike – NANS

    The Forum of Zonal Coordinators of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for a shift from protests to constructive dialogue regarding the recent fuel price hike.

    The coordinators emphasised that engaging in discussions with relevant stakeholders will be more effective in addressing the issue and finding sustainable solutions, rather than resorting to demonstrations that could be hijacked by those with selfish interests.

    It maintained that NANS did not call for any protest or demonstration and urged the public to disregard any call for protests by non-students with ulterior motives. 

    Read Also: We are not sole suppliers of Dangote petrol – NNPCL

    The Chairman of the Forum, Comrade Bilal Kurfi, who addressed reporters on Saturday in Abuja, sympathised with the student population over the challenges posed by what he called well-intentioned economic policies introduced by the President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Kurfi said: “Rather than the student population marching to the streets in protests that could be hijacked to further heighten the already escalating tensions in the system, we believe that dialogue, rather than confrontation, should be adopted to resolve the current crisis. We are intellectuals, not street urchins or political thugs who can be hired by anyone or a group of moneybags to destabilise the country.

    “NANS is committed to peaceful and constructive engagement, and we will not be part of any activity that may compromise the safety and well-being of our members and the general public.

    “The students shall engage in dialogue with the FG and NNPCL to seek a reduction in petrol prices to mitigate the effects of inflation on our colleagues.

    “The idea of protests being called by some non-students masquerading as our colleagues could destabilise the country, and this is not an option for us. We prefer dialogue over actions that could be deemed partisan and counterproductive to the development and unity of our nation.”

    He urged the entire student population to await its civil and democratic actions regarding the price hike and assured them that President Tinubu, as a sympathetic leader, will listen to their concerns.

    The Forum also denounced one Mr. Henry Adewumi Okunomo, who called for a nationwide protest and shutdown of the economic system.

  • Fuel price hike: We’ll occupy major Nigeria cities September 15, NANS declares

    Fuel price hike: We’ll occupy major Nigeria cities September 15, NANS declares

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has threatened to occupy major cities across the country on September 15, if the recent increase in fuel prices is not reversed.

    The Senate President of the student body, Henry Okuomo, disclosed this on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.

    This is coming after a factional Senate President of the association, Babatunde Akinteye, denied that the group was organising a protest against the increase in petrol price.

    Akinteye had called on security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation.

    The statement reads in part: “We hereby call on the security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the origin of this misinformation. Those responsible for spreading these falsehoods must be identified and held accountable.

    “The use of the NANS name to propagate such dangerous and unfounded claims is not only a threat to national security but also a grave disservice to the millions of students who genuinely seek positive change through legitimate means.

    “Furthermore, we urge security agencies to act decisively in apprehending any individuals or groups attempting to use the name of NANS to incite unrest or disrupt the peace of our nation. We must collectively ensure that the integrity of our democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times.”

    However, Okuomo, said that he’s the “authentic” senate president of NANS, adding that the group remains one “indivisible and indisolable entity.”

    He said that the body must act swiftly to alleviate the severe hardships faced by millions of Nigerians due to the recent increase in fuel prices.

    Okuomo said: “We are not threatening a strike. That is what we are going to do because of the current situation in the country. Nigerians are currently facing a lot. We are facing hardship, and now, the government has increased fuel prices again. This has affected us as students. And as student leaders, we don’t have a choice now but to fight for the people.

    Read Also: NANS condemns use of students for political motives

    “We are occupying one of the largest stakes in the country, having over 40 million Nigerian students in the country.

    “With that, we think we should make our voice loud at this time to save the Nigerian people from this undue stress and suffering being put upon them by the government.

    “We have determined that on the 15th of this month, no going back. We are hitting the street hard.

    “We are going to demand not only for a reduction in fuel price but for other things that are affecting the nation in general.

    ‘We are going to do it. We will hit the streets if the government does not reverse most of the hardship policies before then.”

    “Many of our campuses, none of the shuttles are working due to the hike, and the fact that if you have the money to get fuel, the queue at the filling station is long and you won’t get the fuel on time. Shuttle and everything else on campus has been paralyzed.

    “Nothing is working in the country at the moment, and we can’t take it.”

    Okuomo also said that the planned nationwide protest will be held if the government fails to heed the body’s demand before September 15.

    “This is not going to be business as usual. This is not a protest organized by some faceless element but by a body which is Nigerian students recognized under the law. We’ll hit the street on September 15 if the government does not reverse its policies before then,” he added.

    He added that NANS, through its platforms, have been sentizing students across the country on the planned protest adding that private varsity students are free to join.

  • NANS condemns use of students for political motives

    NANS condemns use of students for political motives

    .Urges Gov Abiodun to denounce student faction

    By Femi Adeolu, OGITECH

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS),has condemned the use of students for political motives,noting that it won’t allow its members to be manipulated for purposes that do not serve the interests of the nation.

    A statement by NANS President Comr. Lucky Emonefe, noted that the unity and stability of the nation must be preserved, and any attempt to use students as pawns in political games must be condemned in the strongest terms.

    NANS said: “We wish to draw attention to a grave situation involving a faceless individual who has been actively calling for protests against the Federal Government.

    Read Also: NANS denounces claims of nationwide protest, seeks security intervention

    “We call on President Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to investigate this matter and hold those responsible accountable. The unity and stability of our nation must be preserved, and any attempt to use students as pawns in political games must be condemned in the strongest terms.NANS firmly believes that such actions are not only irresponsible but also dangerous. 

    “NANS remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students and the broader Nigerian populace. We will not stand by while our platform is manipulated for purposes that do not serve the interests of our members or the nation.

    “We appeal to  Governor Dapo Abiodun to cease recognising the NANS faction holding a programme in Abeokuta on Thursday because the said faceless faction are allegedly calling for protest against the President.”

  • NANS denounces claims of nationwide protest, seeks security intervention

    NANS denounces claims of nationwide protest, seeks security intervention

    The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has denounced claims that it is planning a massive shutdown of major cities across the nation through protest.

    In a statement, NANS Senate president, Comr Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, noted that the student association did not announce or endorse such, hence, rumours circulating to that effect are baseless and do not reflect the position or intentions of NANS.

    It called on security agencies to act decisively in apprehending any individuals or groups attempting to use the name of NANS to incite unrest or disrupt the peace of the nation. 

    NANS stressed the need to collectively ensure that the integrity of democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times in the country.

    The student body urged security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the origin of the misinformation.

    Read Also; Afrobeat is for ‘escapism’ not social commentary – Tems

    It stressed that those responsible for spreading falsehood are identified and held accountable, adding that the use of NANS name to propagate such dangerous and unfounded claims is not only a threat to national security but also a grave disservice to the millions of students who genuinely seek positive change through legitimate means.

    NANS said: “The leadership of NANS has been made aware of rumours and misinformation circulating across various platforms, suggesting that NANS is planning a massive shutdown of major cities across the country. We wish to categorically state that NANS has not announced or endorsed any such protest. These reports are entirely baseless and do not reflect the position or intentions of our organization.

    “As the umbrella body representing the interests of Nigerian students, we have always been committed to peaceful advocacy and constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders. We understand the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in our nation, especially during these challenging times. Any actions that could lead to civil unrest or the disruption of public order are not, and will never be, supported by NANS.

    “We strongly urge the public, the media, and all stakeholders to disregard these false reports. The individuals or groups behind these rumours are faceless entities who seek to exploit the name of NANS for their own malicious purposes. Their aim is clear: to destabilize the country and create unnecessary tension among citizens. We categorically disassociate ourselves from any such plans or intentions.

    “We hereby call on the security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the origin of this misinformation. It is imperative that those responsible for spreading these falsehoods are identified and held accountable. The use of the NANS name to propagate such dangerous and unfounded claims is not only a threat to national security but also a grave disservice to the millions of students who genuinely seek positive change through legitimate means.

    “Furthermore, we urge security agencies to act decisively in apprehending any individuals or groups attempting to use the name of NANS to incite unrest or disrupt the peace of our nation. We must collectively ensure that the integrity of our democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times.

    “NANS remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students. We will continue to pursue this mission through peaceful, lawful, and constructive channels. Let it be known that NANS stands firmly for peace, progress, and the unity of our nation.

    “We appreciate the ongoing support of Nigerian students and the public, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant and not to fall prey to those who seek to manipulate and mislead for their own selfish gains.”

  • Fulfill your bus pledge, NANS appeals to Tinubu

    Fulfill your bus pledge, NANS appeals to Tinubu

    The Zonal Coordinators of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fulfill the promise to provide buses for student union bodies in government-owned Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education nationwide. 

    NANS said the promise was made on July 13, 2023, by the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake, which gives hopes and expectations to the entire student community. 

    A statement by Zone A Coordinator, Com. Bilal Kurfi, Zone C, Com. Daniel Egga, Zone D, Com. Alao John, Zone E, Com. Bappa Adam and Com. Chidi Nzekwe, Zone F lamented after several months, the buses have not been fully provided to respective institutions.

    According to them, President Tinubu’s administration has emphasised importance of easing burden of transportation costs for students, especially in light of the escalating fuel prices due to the removal of fuel subsidies. 

    The statement stated that the initiative was seen as a critical intervention to alleviate the financial strain on students and their families. 

    “The President’s vision was clear: to ensure that no student is left behind due to economic challenges, and that accessing education remains a fundamental right, not a privilege limited by financial constraints.

    “However, the failure to fully deliver on this promise has left students and their families grappling with the same transportation challenges the initiative aimed to resolve,” the student said. 

    NANS said the delay or lack of implementation raised serious concerns about the commitment of the government to the welfare of its citizens, particularly the youth who are the future of this nation.

    Read Also: NANS urges govt agencies to contribute to NELFUND

    “As Zonal Coordinators of NANS, we believe that a government that makes promises must also fulfill those promises. A government’s credibility is built on trust and the ability to deliver on its commitments. 

    “When promises are made and not kept, it not only erodes the trust of the people but also undermines the very foundation of governance and accountability.

    “We, therefore, call on President Bola Tinubu to act swiftly and ensure that the promise made to Nigerian students is fulfilled without further delay. The provision of these buses is not just a matter of convenience but a critical need that affects the daily lives and academic success of students across the country. 

    “We urge the President to remember his words and take immediate action to deliver on this promise.

    “We implore the President to maintain vigilance over the administration of federal universities, ensuring that there are no arbitrary increases in school fees or other charges that could further burden students. The President’s commitment to education should be reflected in tangible actions that directly benefit the student body.

    “We, the Zonal Coordinators of NANS, stand firm in our position that the Government of the day must be one that honors its word. We expect the President to uphold the trust placed in him by the Nigerian students and act in accordance with his promises. 

    “The time to act is now, and we are watching closely. The welfare of Nigerian students should remain a top priority, and we expect nothing less than a full commitment from the President and his administration.”

  • NANS urges govt agencies to contribute to NELFUND

    NANS urges govt agencies to contribute to NELFUND

    • Hails EFCC for N50b donation to Fund

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged  government agencies, private organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)  by contributing to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund(NELFUND) and ensure that no Nigerian student is left behind due to financial difficulties.

    NANS was reacting to the EFCC’s N50 billion donation to  the student loan fund yesterday.

    In a statement by its Senate President Comr Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, the student association said the bolstering of the Fund through the donation will provide further  lifeline for countless students across the nation, while empowering them to contribute meaningfully to society.

    NANS commended the EFCC for the ‘thoughtful and impactful’  contribution, adding that it will not only support students but  also uplift entire families and communities, reinforcing the importance of education in building a better Nigeria.

    It stressed that the donation   demonstrated the commission’s commitment to the future of Nigerian students.

    Read Also: Wike threatens to revoke land titles over non-payment of C-of-O Fees

    The student association praised the EFCC for recognizing the crucial role education plays in national development and for taking concrete steps to support it.

    “This loan fund will greatly assist parents who, despite their best efforts, struggle to afford the rising costs of education. For many families, the burden of educational expenses can be overwhelming, leading to difficult decisions about which child can continue their studies. The availability of this student loan will ease this burden, ensuring that every child has an equal opportunity to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

    “The benefits of the student loan fund extend beyond immediate financial relief. By enabling more students to complete their education, the fund will contribute to the development of a skilled and educated workforce, which is essential for the nation’s growth and prosperity. It will also reduce the incidence of school dropouts due to financial constraints, ensuring that more young Nigerians can become productive members of society.

  • NANS urges govt agencies to contribute to NELFUND

    NANS urges govt agencies to contribute to NELFUND

    …hails EFCC for N50b donation to Fund

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged government agencies, private organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by contributing to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and ensuring that no Nigerian student is left behind due to financial difficulties.

    NANS was reacting to the EFCC’s N50 billion donation to the student loan fund on Wednesday, August 14.

    In a statement by its Senate President Comr Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, the student association said the bolstering of the Fund through the donation will provide a further lifeline for countless students across the nation while empowering them to contribute meaningfully to society.

    NANS commended the EFCC for the ‘thoughtful and impactful’ contribution, adding that it will not only support students but also uplift entire families and communities, reinforcing the importance of education in building a better Nigeria.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: NELFUND clears 22 additional state-owned institutions for student loan

    It stressed that the donation demonstrated the commission’s commitment to the future of Nigerian students.

    The student association praised the EFCC for recognizing the crucial role education plays in national development and for taking concrete steps to support it.

    “This loan fund will greatly assist parents who, despite their best efforts, struggle to afford the rising costs of education. For many families, the burden of educational expenses can be overwhelming, leading to difficult decisions about which child can continue their studies. The availability of this student loan will ease this burden, ensuring that every child has an equal opportunity to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

    “The benefits of the student loan fund extend beyond immediate financial relief. By enabling more students to complete their education, the fund will contribute to the development of a skilled and educated workforce, which is essential for the nation’s growth and prosperity. It will also reduce the incidence of school dropouts due to financial constraints, ensuring that more young Nigerians can become productive members of society.

     “We thank the EFCC for this thoughtful and impactful contribution. This donation will not only support students but will also uplift entire families and communities, reinforcing the importance of education in building a better Nigeria. I commend the EFCC for recognizing the crucial role education plays in national development and for taking concrete steps to support it.

    “This extraordinary act of generosity and foresight and your investment in the education of our youth will yield immeasurable dividends for our nation in the years to come,” NANS said.

  • NANS condemns rustication of students at Ede Poly

    NANS condemns rustication of students at Ede Poly

    The National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) has condemned the recent rustication of students at Federal Polytechnic, Ede by Rector of the institution.

    NANS claimed that the affected students, whose only “offense” was to stand up and agitate for their rightful entitlements, have been unjustly punished for exercising their constitutional rights.

    A statement by NANS Senate President, Com. Akinteye Babatunde alleged instead of the Rector to address legitimate concerns raised by the students, he has chosen a path of intimidation and further threats.

    According to the NANS Senate President, the targeting of faculty presidents and course representatives with threats of rustication is not only unacceptable but also a blatant abuse of power aimed at silencing the student body.

    He said: “Furthermore, it is appalling to note that after extorting ₦10,000 from each student as a fee for damages post-protest, the Rector still proceeded to expel them.

    “This not only showcases a lack of integrity and accountability but also a gross exploitation of the students’ plight for financial gain.

    Read Also: Economic sabotage: NNPCL, NMDPRA, others deny complicity

    “We wishes to unequivocally state that such threats will not deter us from pursuing justice for our members. The rights of the students to advocate for their welfare and demand accountability are sacrosanct and must be respected.

    “We hereby demand the immediate reinstatement of all rusticated students. Should the Rector fail to meet this demand, we will proceed with the last C of Aluta to ensure that the voices of the students are heard and their rights are upheld. The threats and intimidation tactics currently employed will not save the Rector from facing the consequences of his actions.

    “We stand firm in our position: it is either the Rector resigns or he reinstates our students. The choice is his to make.

    “The unity and solidarity of the Nigerian students are unbreakable, and we will continue to stand together against any form of injustice. We call upon all students, alumni, and well-meaning Nigerians to join us in this struggle to defend the rights of the student body.”

  • NANS summit vows to strengthen peace-building efforts 

    NANS summit vows to strengthen peace-building efforts 

    The 84th Senate sitting of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) aims to strengthen peace-building efforts in the nation and explore how students can contribute to the efforts.

    According to a statement by NANS Senate President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, the sitting is scheduled for July 26th to July 28th at the Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo state.

    The theme for the event is “The Role of Students in Maintaining National Peace.”

    NANS emphasised that the gathering marks a significant opportunity for Nigerian students to discuss their crucial role in promoting and sustaining peace across the nation.

    The student association noted that the event would provide a platform for robust discussions and strategic planning on how to further contribute to national peace while developing actionable plans that would enhance the role of students in peace-building efforts.

    Read Also; AI, social media occupying dominant role in information space, says EU envoy

    It said: “Students are pivotal in the quest for national peace. As future leaders, we possess the energy, creativity, and passion needed to drive positive change. Our active involvement in promoting dialogue, understanding, and tolerance is essential in bridging divides within communities. Through educational initiatives, community service, and advocacy, we can champion the values of peace and unity.

    “Education remains a powerful tool in combating ignorance and prejudice, which are often at the root of conflict. By engaging in academic pursuits and extracurricular activities that promote peace, we can influence our peers and communities positively. Participation in peace-building activities not only enriches our educational experience but also prepares each other for responsible citizenship.

    “Moreover, students play a significant role in holding authorities accountable and ensuring that governance structures are transparent and just. By advocating for policies that promote social justice, equity, and inclusivity, we contribute to creating an environment where peace can thrive. Our voices, when united, can drive national conversations towards solutions that address the causes of unrest

    NANS remains committed to fostering an environment where Nigerian students can thrive academically and socially. We urge all stakeholders, including educational institutions, government agencies, and civil society organizations, to support our efforts in promoting peace and unity.”