The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has officially inaugurated its 2026 national leadership.

The inauguration ceremony held on Tuesday at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, attracted senior government officials, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, development partners, captains of industry, civil society organizations, youth leaders, student union executives, alumni of the Nigerian student movement, and other critical stakeholders committed to advancing education and youth development.

In a statement, National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Comrade David Obidah said the inauguration of the new national leadership of NANS, the apex representative body of Nigerian students across tertiary institutions in the country, marked the beginning of a renewed era of visionary, accountable, and purposeful student representation.

According to the statement, the ceremony formally ushered in the new administration under the leadership of National President, Comrade Babatunde Akinteye, who assumes office with a clear mandate to champion the rights, welfare, and aspirations of millions of Nigerian students through responsible leadership, constructive engagement, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships.

In his inaugural address, the National President reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerian students, expanding access to quality and affordable education, promoting institutional accountability, encouraging innovation within the education sector, and fostering unity among students across the federation.

He emphasized that the new leadership would remain focused on delivering impactful representation while working collaboratively with relevant stakeholders to address the pressing challenges confronting education in Nigeria.

Speaking on the significance of the inauguration, the National PRO reiterated that the new leadership is committed to building a student movement anchored on dialogue, inclusiveness, integrity, and service.

He noted that while the association will continue to engage governments and institutions through constructive dialogue, it will remain resolute in defending the rights, dignity, and legitimate interests of Nigerian students.

He further affirmed that the administration is committed to fostering productive collaboration with the Federal Government, educational institutions, development partners, and the private sector to advance reforms capable of improving learning conditions, expanding educational opportunities, and enhancing the overall welfare of students nationwide.

The statement reads, “The inauguration underscores NANS’ determination to reposition the association as a credible, transparent, and solution-driven institution that places the interests of Nigerian students above all other considerations.

“The leadership pledged to promote accountability, strengthen democratic participation within the student movement, and ensure that the voices of Nigerian students continue to shape national conversations on education and youth development.

“The National Association of Nigerian Students expresses profound appreciation to all dignitaries, stakeholders, partners, and members of the media whose presence and support contributed to the success of the inauguration ceremony. Their participation reflects a shared commitment to empowering Nigerian students and strengthening the nation’s education sector.

“As the 2026 National Leadership begins its tenure, NANS calls on students, educational institutions, government agencies, development partners, and the private sector to work collectively towards building an education system that is accessible, equitable, innovative, and globally competitive.

“The association remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing policies and initiatives that will secure a brighter future for Nigerian students and contribute meaningfully to national development.” (The Sun)

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