The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced that it will pursue dialogue with the Federal Government over the recent hike in Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) prices, stating that a nationwide protest would only be considered as a last resort. The student body also called for the dismissal of underperforming ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
During a press briefing in Abuja, NANS Senate President Akinteye Babatunde emphasized the importance of constructive engagement before resorting to protests. He also urged the government to double the student loan maintenance allowance from N20,000 to N40,000, citing the financial strain students are facing due to the rising cost of living.
“We believe dialogue is the most prudent step,” Akinteye stated. “We will exhaust every avenue for constructive engagement with the government and relevant stakeholders before contemplating a nationwide protest. Protests should be a last resort, not the first option.”
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Akinteye also acknowledged the reforms implemented by President Tinubu’s administration but urged the government to consider the plight of ordinary Nigerians. He stressed the need for policies to be rolled out in phases to give citizens time to adapt, especially given the financial hardship caused by the fuel subsidy removal.
While NANS supports the government’s long-term goals, Akinteye made it clear that students and ordinary Nigerians need to see tangible benefits from the fuel subsidy removal. The association also called for a more accountable government and urged President Tinubu to dismiss ministers who have failed to perform effectively.
“Many ministries have been passive and silent during this period of hardship. Nigerians deserve a government that is dynamic, responsive, and communicates its plans transparently,” he added.
In light of the economic challenges, NANS is advocating for an increase in the student loan maintenance allowance, from N20,000 to N40,000. According to Akinteye, this increase is essential for students to cope with the rising costs and ensure they can continue their education without excessive financial strain.
To further their cause, NANS has established a 10-member committee to engage with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Federal Government. This committee will present their demands and offer potential solutions in hopes of securing a reduction in fuel prices.
“Our goal is to secure tangible solutions that will alleviate the challenges Nigerians are facing,” Akinteye said, expressing optimism that dialogue would lead to positive outcomes.
