The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), led by its President, Olushola Oladoja, on Tuesday held a strategic meeting with the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The high-level engagement focused on deepening collaboration between the Federal Government and the Nigerian student community, particularly on critical issues affecting tertiary education across the country.
The meeting brought together key NANS structures, including representatives of allied student unions nationwide. Sources within the association described the session as part of renewed efforts by the student body to maintain direct engagement with top government officials on matters of access to education, funding, student welfare and academic stability in higher institutions.
Speaking during the meeting, Oladoja outlined proposals for strategic partnership between NANS and the Federal Government, stressing the need for policies and initiatives that would deliver measurable benefits to Nigerian students. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to safeguarding students’ rights and securing sustainable solutions to longstanding challenges within the education sector.
“We are here to advance strategic partnerships that will bring measurable benefits to Nigerian students. Our priority remains the protection of their rights and academic future,” Oladoja stated.
The NANS president also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recent interventions in the education sector. He specifically referenced the Federal Government’s agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), describing it as a significant step toward sustaining industrial harmony in public universities.
He noted that stability in the academic calendar remains essential for students’ academic progression and urged continued commitment to dialogue in resolving labour disputes within the sector.
Oladoja further applauded the rollout of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as a landmark intervention that has eased financial burdens for many undergraduates, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. He emphasized the importance of transparency and sustained implementation to strengthen public confidence in the scheme.
In a statement issued after the meeting, NANS Secretary-General Anzaku Shedrack Ovye reaffirmed the association’s commitment to constructive engagement with government institutions. He maintained that dialogue remains the most effective mechanism for addressing concerns within the education sector and protecting the interests of students.
The association also expressed appreciation to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Asefon Sunday Dayo, for facilitating communication between student leaders and the Presidency and for his continued advocacy on student-related matters.
Commending Oladoja’s leadership style, NANS executives described his tenure as one defined by bold engagement and accountability, noting that he has consistently championed the interests of Nigerian students through direct interaction with policymakers.
