Opinion: Has NANS Drifted From Student Advocacy to Political Alignment?

edutvnigeria

13/01/26 • 7 Views • 0 Share • Published in News

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), historically regarded as the conscience and defender of Nigerian students, once embodied courage, independence, and principled activism. From challenging oppressive government policies to safeguarding academic freedom and student welfare, NANS built a formidable legacy—most notably under the leadership of the late Segun Okeowo, whose bold activism redefined student movements in Nigeria.

In 2007 and 2010, the association successfully resisted the arbitrary retrenchment of university staff, helping to avert disruptions to academic activities. Such interventions reinforced its image as a fearless protector of educational stability and student interests.

However, growing concerns now surround what appears to be a gradual shift in the association’s priorities. The recent endorsement of All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, by NANS Southwest Zone D, is the latest in a troubling trend of political affiliations. The endorsement, reportedly based on Oyebamiji’s educational credentials and youth inclusion agenda, follows past instances in which NANS openly supported political candidates and lawmakers.

A Shift From Watchdog to Political Partner?

Ideally, NANS should operate as an impartial advocate—supporting policies that benefit students while firmly challenging those that do not. Political endorsements, especially in the absence of broad-based consultations or clear student mandates, blur that line. When the association aligns too closely with political actors, its legitimacy and credibility risk erosion.

Meanwhile, Nigerian students continue to grapple with fundamental challenges: underfunded universities, deteriorating infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, unstable academic calendars, and frequent industrial actions. Despite regular engagement with policymakers, the real impact of NANS’ advocacy remains questionable, as campuses across the country still struggle with harsh learning conditions and limited resources.

Representation in Name Only?

Questions also persist about how inclusive and representative NANS leadership truly is. Leadership crises, internal factional battles, and opaque decision-making processes have left many students feeling disconnected from the organisation that claims to speak on their behalf. Endorsements made without transparent consultation only fuel perceptions of transactional politics rather than genuine student representation.

The consequences extend beyond image and reputation. When a once-independent advocacy body becomes politically aligned, accountability in the education sector weakens. Policy failures—from inadequate funding to student welfare neglect—face less scrutiny. Ultimately, students pay the price.

A Critical Turning Point

NANS stands at a decisive crossroads. To reclaim its relevance, the association must recommit to independence, transparency, genuine representation, and policy-driven advocacy. Strengthened internal democracy, meaningful student engagement, and strategic campaigns for improved funding, modern infrastructure, and academic excellence must define its renewed mission.

Student leadership exists to amplify student voices, not to substitute them with partisan interests. For NANS to restore confidence and honour its founding principles, its actions must speak louder than endorsements. Nigerian students deserve strong, principled, and unbiased representation—anything less risks reducing one of Nigeria’s most historic student bodies to a tool of political convenience.

Download our Mobile App for easy access
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edutvmobile.ng&hl=en

Mobile App Lite
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edutvng.lite
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edutvmobile.ng&hl=en