Comrade Olushola Oladoja has been elected as the new National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), promising to introduce a fresh approach to student advocacy and welfare.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Oladoja declared that his administration marks a new era that will consolidate past achievements while implementing strategic reforms aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerian students.
He commended the NANS Independent Convention Planning Committee, led by Prince Koyoyo, for conducting a transparent and credible convention, describing it as “a historic moment for Nigerian students.”
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the immediate past leadership of NANS, led by Comr. Lucky Emonefe (National President) and Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (Senate President). Their contributions to the struggle for students’ rights, better welfare, and quality education will always be acknowledged. I pledge to build on the solid foundation they have laid while advancing the cause of Nigerian students,” he stated.
Oladoja further announced an immediate nationwide campus tour, which he said would provide firsthand insight into the challenges facing students in tertiary institutions across the country.
“As a demonstration of our commitment, I hereby announce the immediate commencement of a nationwide campus tour to assess the state of welfare and facilities across our tertiary institutions. This tour will enable us to gather firsthand information on the pressing issues facing Nigerian students and ensure that we engage the relevant authorities for necessary interventions,” he declared.
The newly elected NANS President emphasized that his leadership would be “campus-oriented,” prioritizing grassroots engagement and real-time advocacy to tackle student-related issues effectively.
Oladoja also reached out to his fellow contenders, calling for unity in advancing the collective interests of Nigerian students.
“To all my co-contenders in this election, I say this is a victory for all. In the Fortune Era, there are no victors or vanquished. We are all partners in progress, and I extend my hand of fellowship to work with everyone in the collective interest of Nigerian students. Together, we will run an all-inclusive NANS administration that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of students across the country,” he assured.
Stressing the importance of student activism in nation-building, Oladoja reaffirmed NANS’ commitment to standing in solidarity with the Nigerian masses in the struggle for national development.
“Nigerian students have a vital role to play in shaping the future of our great nation, and NANS will ensure that students’ voices are heard on matters of national interest,” he added.
He urged all students to remain united, focused, and committed to the struggle for a better education system, describing his leadership as “a new dawn for NANS.”