The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has described the victory of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke in the just-concluded election as a resounding vote of confidence in his leadership over the past four years.

A statement congratulating the governor and signed by the Coordinator of NANS Southwest Zone D, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, noted that the participation of students across major tertiary institutions in the state contributed significantly to the democratic process.

The statement highlighted institutions including Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Osun State University (UNIOSUN), University of Ilesa (UNILESA), Osun State College of Health Technology (OSCOHEALTH), Federal Polytechnic, Ede (FPE), Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun, and the Federal College of Education, Iwo, as key student communities that turned out to cast their ballots.

NANS noted that its stance on the election was based on a thorough assessment of the administration’s performance in student welfare and educational infrastructure.

“Where government fell short, we challenged it. Where our members were affected, we confronted the issues. Where progress was made, we acknowledged it,” the statement read.

It added that the active participation witnessed in student-populated areas reflected the confidence young people placed in the continuation of the current administration.

The association also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for maintaining a fair democratic posture ahead of the election, specifically commending his directive to security agencies to protect voters and ensure a peaceful process.

NANS commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigeria Police Force, election observers and civil society organisations for their roles in conducting the election.

Setting expectations for the governor’s second term, the student leadership urged the state government to prioritise a student-centred agenda.

Key demands outlined by the association include increased funding for state-owned tertiary institutions, campus infrastructure upgrades, functional healthcare services, enhanced security, functional bursaries and scholarships, entrepreneurship support and graduate employment initiatives.

“The first mandate gave you the opportunity to demonstrate what your administration could offer. This second mandate must define your legacy,” the association concluded, reaffirming its commitment to advocating for the welfare of Nigerian students. (Sunday Tribune)