NANS Commends Tinubu for Appointing Academicians, Technocrats, and Renowned Politicians to Tertiary Institutions' Governing Councils

By Mohammed Bello Doka

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed commendation towards President Bola Tinubu for the recent reconstitution of the governing councils of tertiary institutions across the country.

In a statement signed by its president, Comrade Pedro Chibuzor, NANS praised President Tinubu for selecting what it described as "competent individuals" to serve on these councils. The apex students' body highlighted the prompt action taken by the President to appoint a diverse group of academicians, technocrats, and experienced politicians, which they believe will significantly contribute to the rapid development of Nigeria's academic institutions.

“Nigerian students are immensely grateful to President Tinubu for taking prompt action to appoint worthy academicians, technocrats, and experienced politicians into the councils. We believe these individuals have the potential to help fast-track the development of our academic institutions,” the statement read.

NANS emphasized the transformative impact of appointing about 200 academicians, including around 100 professors and PhD holders, alongside technocrats and politicians, to the councils of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. This move, according to NANS, signals a renewed hope for the advancement of Nigerian students' educational aspirations, contrasting with past appointments that featured fewer academicians.

“We, the Nigerian students, commend President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to transforming academic institutions through this sound appointment of an incorruptible team of thoroughbred administrators. This follows the recent introduction of a student loan program for Nigerian students, further showcasing his dedication to educational development,” Chibuzor added.

While congratulating the newly appointed governing council members and their chairpersons, NANS appealed to them to ensure justice and prevent the victimization of students by institutional management. The association expressed confidence in President Tinubu's foresight in appointing some of the finest Nigerians to manage the affairs of the country's higher education institutions.

Finally, NANS called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to cooperate with the new council members and support President Tinubu’s genuine efforts to enhance the education sector.

Comrade Pedro Obi, President of NANS, expressed these sentiments in a statement dated June 19, 2024.