Nigerian University Students Postpone Nationwide Protest, Present Demands

Segun Atanda/

The joint leadership of the national student associations from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria have announced the postponement of their planned nationwide protests.

In a statement signed by key representatives—Comrade Obaji U. Marshal (NAUS), Amb. Shuaib Ishaka Yahaya (Senate President, NAUS), Comrade Ridwan O. Munirudeen (NAPS), Amb. Comrade Egunjobi Samuel Oluseseun (NANCES), and Sen. Kur Isaac Ushemba (Senate President, NANCES)—the student leaders cited ongoing “marathon consultations with stakeholders, government officials, and well-meaning Nigerians” as the reason for their decision. These discussions have provided assurances of swift action on their demands.

The communiqué also highlighted security concerns and the risk of their protest being hijacked, noting that the upcoming national protest in August played a significant role in their decision. The joint leadership emphasized the potential dangers of leading a protest at such a critical time, considering the possibility of it being misused, which could lead to adverse consequences for the student body.

Despite the postponement, the leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the welfare of all students across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. They stressed their administration’s dedication to securing the best outcomes for students until their term ends.

The leadership reminded the public that the proposed protest aimed to draw attention to the severe economic hardships and rising costs of living that disproportionately affect students and youths. They reiterated their awareness of their constitutional rights and their intent to exercise them soon.

The students’ leadership outlined the pressing issues: skyrocketing living costs, increasing prices of essential commodities, hikes in petroleum and electricity tariffs, insecurity, and inadequate funding for educational institutions. These challenges, affecting over 80% of Nigeria’s population, are especially burdensome for young Nigerians pursuing academic qualifications.

They expressed disappointment in the government’s failure to provide adequate, immediate, and long-term palliatives to mitigate the high cost of living for students. This lack of effective initiatives for sustainable economic recovery and growth has heightened their concerns.

For clarity, the joint leadership dissociated itself from a separate 10-day protest being organized, urging all tertiary institutions to stay away from it. They emphasized that their protest is postponed, not canceled, and that engagements with the government and stakeholders will continue.

The leadership assured students of their ongoing commitment to welfare and educational standards, calling for their continued trust and cooperation. Further details will be provided in an upcoming press conference.

0