A NEW MONTH, RENEWED COMMITMENT TO NIGERIAN STUDENTS
Dear Nigerian Students,
As we begin the second half of the year, this is not just a time for us to celebrate another new month; rather, it is a time that calls for reflection. For me, as your President, it is an opportunity to give you feedback and account for my stewardship.
You will recall that you entrusted me with this mandate to represent you a month and a few days ago. Ever since, I have remained committed to advancing your interests and our collective aspirations. With passion, dedication, and commitment, I have tirelessly strived to be closer to you, listen to your concerns, and continue to speak on your behalf. I have also been able to forge partnerships, build collaborations, and initiate programmes that address your overall well-being.
So far, we have engaged the Oyo State Government on the immediate rescue and safe return of the students and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Similarly, we engaged security agencies and physically visited the affected communities to sympathize with them and identify with their plight.
Furthermore, we secured the reinstatement of LAUTECH students who were suspended by the university and also secured the reinstatement of the Students' Union Government (SUG) President of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE).
Beyond the four walls of our higher institutions of learning, we addressed the prolonged stay of WASSCE candidates at examination centres across the country amid security concerns. We also constituted and inaugurated Standing Committees on TETFund, NDDC, NEDC, and ITF intervention, projects assessment, verification, and monitoring to ensure that students, who are the major beneficiaries of these government agencies, are not left behind.
Furthermore, we engaged the Ebonyi State Government on issues relating to students' welfare. On matters of national importance and unity, we organized a nationwide Democracy Day Walk to celebrate government of the people. We also engaged High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowie Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and secured local and international scholarships for students, job opportunities for stakeholders, as well as mobility support. In addition, we have continued to raise our voice over the discrepancies in NELFUND disbursements.
As we forge ahead in this new month, be assured that you have a leadership that will never compromise and will continue to speak for you and represent your interests. As Nigerian students, let us continue to strive for excellence, and beyond the four walls of our classrooms, let us remain innovative, purposeful, and committed to building a better future. As your President, I will continue to advocate for you.
I wish every Nigerian student a Happy New Month, filled with abundant blessings, greater opportunities, and monumental happiness. Always remember that you are never alone.
One of you,
Dist. Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, GCNS
President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)