Zonal Coordinators of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, have called on President Bola Tinubu to fulfil his promise of providing for student union bodies in the country.
The Coordinators, Comrades Bilal Lawal Kurfi, Northwest, Daniel Friday Egga, Zone C, Alao John, Zone D, Bappa Hassan Adam, Zone E and Chidi Nzekwe, Southeast, in a statement, urged the President not to forget his promise, saying delaying it was not in the interest of the students.
“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.
Credit: vanguardngr.com
