Olushola Oladoja, a postgraduate student of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State, has emerged as the new National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) following a keenly contested election Edutimes Africa Reports.
The announcement was made by the Chairman of the NANS Convention Committee, Comrade Suleiman Sariki, on Thursday, February 27.
According to him, the election took place on Wednesday, February 26, at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja, with over 358 student leaders participating, including Presidents of Students’ Union Governments from various universities across the country.
Oladoja secured a decisive victory, polling 300 votes to defeat his closest rivals—Salahudeen Suleiman of the University of Abuja and Gambo Abubakar of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State.
Other Elected NANS Executives
Alongside Oladoja, other newly elected officials who will lead NANS include:
Anzaku Shedrack – General Secretary-elect
Usman Adamu – Senate President-elect
Adeyemi Samson – Public Relations Officer-elect
Adejuwon Olatunji – Assistant Secretary-General-elect
Election Credibility and Reactions
The election was widely praised for its transparency and fairness. Delegates and student leaders commended the electoral process, noting that it adhered to democratic principles. Many credited the organisers for ensuring a peaceful and well-coordinated exercise.
Speaking after his victory, Oladoja expressed gratitude to his supporters and pledged to work diligently in advancing the interests of Nigerian students. He reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises and emphasised the need for unity among all NANS members and stakeholders.
“Our administration will prioritise student welfare, quality education, and a more proactive engagement with relevant authorities to address the pressing concerns of Nigerian students,” Oladoja stated.
The newly elected officers have vowed to work collaboratively to strengthen the association, advocating for policies that enhance the education sector and improve student welfare nationwide.
As they prepare to take office, the student leadership has called for cooperation and support from students across campuses, urging them to actively participate in efforts aimed at elevating NANS to new heights.
A New Era for Nigerian Students
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) serves as the umbrella body representing students in tertiary institutions across the country. Over the years, the association has played a vital role in advocating for students’ rights, addressing educational challenges, and engaging with government authorities on policy matters affecting Nigerian students.
With this new leadership, expectations are high that the association will continue to be a formidable voice for students, tackling pressing issues such as tuition hikes, student welfare, and the broader state of the Nigerian education system.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
