The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) stands as the foremost student body in Nigeria, representing millions of students across various tertiary institutions. Through its advocacy, NANS plays a vital role in ensuring that the rights and interests of Nigerian students are safeguarded, both within the academic environment and in the broader socio-political landscape. Over the years, the association has been at the forefront of championing educational reforms, demanding better infrastructure, affordable tuition, and a conducive learning environment for students.
NANS is more than just a platform for activism; it also serves as a breeding ground for future leaders, promoting leadership skills, unity, and cooperation among Nigerian students. By engaging with stakeholders in the government and educational sector, NANS has consistently worked to bridge the gap between students and policymakers. Through its structured framework, the association ensures that the voices of students are heard and considered in decisions that impact their academic and social welfare.
In a recent development, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to address the actions of his Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Mr. Kelvin Solomon Olaolu, which they claim are causing division among student leaders in the state.
According to a statement signed by Comrade Okunomo Henry Adewumi, the Senate President of NANS, the association expressed deep concern over Mr. Olaolu’s alleged involvement in activities that have heightened tensions among student leaders. NANS claims that instead of promoting unity, the SSA has prioritized personal interests, creating a hostile environment in the student community.
As Governor Aiyedatiwa embarks on his re-election campaign, NANS emphasized the importance of addressing this issue to prevent further unrest. The association alleges that Mr. Olaolu recently held a meeting with the Ondo State Commissioner of Police and leaders aligned with a particular aspirant, during which they reportedly conspired to use security forces to intimidate students who support opposing candidates.
NANS further alleged that the anti-cultism unit has been mobilized to conduct raids on the accommodations of student comrades who are not aligned with Mr. Olaolu’s preferred candidate. These actions, they say, are aimed at suppressing dissent ahead of the upcoming NANS zonal convention.
In response, the student body is urging Governor Aiyedatiwa, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, to intervene swiftly and instruct Mr. Olaolu to cease such actions. Failure to address this matter, NANS warned, may lead to a peaceful protest demanding the removal of the SSA from office.
The association also called on the governor to ensure that his administration remains neutral in the upcoming NANS convention, allowing students to exercise their rights freely, without fear of intimidation.
While acknowledging Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to education and youth development, NANS expressed confidence that the governor will act decisively to resolve the issue.
Signed,
Comrade Okunomo Henry Adewumi
Senate President,
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)
