The Zonal Coordinators of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have expressed concern over the delay in fulfilling President Bola Tinubu’s promise to student union bodies in the country.
The president had on July 13, 2023, promised to provide buses for student union bodies in government-owned universities, colleges of education, and polytechnics nationwide.
The plan was aimed at alleviating financial strain on students and their families.
However, the delay has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, particularly the youths.
In a statement on Wednesday, the coordinators urged the president not to forget his promise, saying delaying it was not in the interest of the students.
The statement was signed by Comrades Bilal Lawal Kurfi (North-West), Daniel Friday Egga (Zone C), Alao John (Zone D), Bappa Hassan Adam (Zone E) and Chidi Nzekwe (South-East).
They urged President Tinubu to maintain vigilance over federal universities and prevent arbitrary increases in school fees or charges that could further burden students.
The statement read: “The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zonal Coordinators wish to express our deep displeasure and concern regarding the recent developments surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s promise to provide buses for student union bodies in government-owned universities, colleges of education, and polytechnics nationwide.
“This promise, which was announced on July 13th, 2023, by the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications & Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake, was welcomed with high hopes and expectations by the entire student community.
“However, it is disappointing to note that several months have passed, and the promised buses have not been fully provided to the respective institutions.
“President Tinubu’s administration, as outlined in the statement, emphasized the importance of easing the burden of transportation costs for students, especially in light of the escalating fuel prices due to the removal of fuel subsidies. The initiative was seen as a critical intervention to alleviate the financial strain on students and their families. The President’s vision was clear: to ensure that no student is left behind due to economic challenges, and that accessing education remains a fundamental right, not a privilege limited by financial constraints.
“However, the failure to fully deliver on this promise has left students and their families grappling with the same transportation challenges the initiative aimed to resolve. The delay or lack of implementation raises serious concerns about the commitment of the government to the welfare of its citizens, particularly the youths who are the future of this nation.
“As Zonal Coordinators of NANS, we believe that a government that makes promises must also fulfill those promises. A government’s credibility is built on trust and the ability to deliver on its commitments. When promises are made and not kept, it not only erodes the trust of the people but also undermines the very foundation of governance and accountability.
“We, therefore, call on President Bola Tinubu to act swiftly and ensure that the promise made to Nigerian students is fulfilled without further delay. The provision of these buses is not just a matter of convenience but a critical need that affects the daily lives and academic success of students across the country. We urge the President to remember his words and take immediate action to deliver on this promise.
“Furthermore, we implore the President to maintain vigilance over the administration of federal universities, ensuring that there are no arbitrary increases in school fees or other charges that could further burden students. The President’s commitment to education should be reflected in tangible actions that directly benefit the student body.
“In conclusion, we, the Zonal Coordinators of NANS, stand firm in our position that the government Government of the day must honour its word. We expect the President to uphold the trust placed in him by the Nigerian students and act in accordance with his promises. The time to act is now, and we are watching closely. The welfare of Nigerian students should remain a top priority, and we expect nothing less than a full commitment from the President and his administration.”
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