NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIAN STUDENTS (NANS)
12th June, 2026
PRESS RELEASE
DEMOCRACY DAY ADDRESS TO NIGERIAN STUDENTS
Today, we pause, we reflect, and celebrate.
I write to you with immense patriotic fervour on this day that marks a significant occasion in our history as Nigerians: Democracy Day. June 12 is a day that holds significant importance in the history of our nation.
As a people, June 12 is a solemn reminder of how much was lost and what we have risked as a nation so that we can live in a state governed by the will of its people. Today, we honour the legacy forged through the sacrifice and courage of our heroes past.
The occurrence of June 12 is a story that every Nigerian student must carry in their heart as a conviction that those who stood for the mandate of a better Nigeria did not do so for personal gains. They stood with the conviction that Nigeria deserved better, and that belief system is what we have as our inheritance.
As your President, I stand today in full knowledge of the hope of democracy for our generation. It means the space to speak truth to power and the right to hold leaders accountable. It is the proof that no Nigerian should be shut out of the decision-making process for a better Nigeria.
As students, we are not passive in the nation's history. Students have always been involved in Nigeria's most defining moments, and it is fair to say that we have always been at the forefront. Our responsibility today is to deepen the culture of democratic participation in our institutions, communities, and in the choices we make as citizens of Nigeria.
As your President, I reiterate my commitment to speak for the oppressed, challenge the status quo when it is unfavourable to Nigerian students, and make positive contributions to our association at large.
As we mark this occasion, let us recommit ourselves to a Nigeria that works, built on transparency, justice, and quality representation.
Permit me also to explore this avenue to appeal to the government to intensify efforts to secure the rescue and safe return of our fellow students and teachers who are still being held hostage.
Great Nigerian students, be assured that as your President, I will not compromise on your mandate or falter in my responsibility to represent and advance our collective will.
Happy Democracy Day, Great Nigerian Students.
It is with great pleasure that I write to you at this critical juncture to formally invite you to a Democracy Day Walk in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
As your President, I remain firmly committed to the ideals of democracy, principles which have, over time, guaranteed our liberty to operate, to organize, and to represent your collective will.
The significance of democracy in the sovereignty of our nation cannot be overstated. It is the foundation upon which our freedoms stand, granting us the right to express ourselves, to demand improved welfare, and to actively participate in shaping our collective future.
As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, which represents the very foundation of our liberty, I hereby call for a nationwide Democracy Walk to commemorate and reflect on the essence of democratic governance in Nigeria.
This year’s Democracy Walk shall hold simultaneously in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Imo States.
As Nigerian students, we bear a great responsibility for the future of this nation, and indeed, its sovereignty rests significantly on our shoulders. We must, therefore, remain resolute in preserving, protecting, and advancing the democratic ideals that bind us together as a people.
Thank you.
Yours in nation-building,
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Long Live Nigerian Students!
Long Live NANS!
Yours in service,
Dist. Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, GCNS
President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)