The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to constructive youth engagement and collaboration with student bodies as the National Association of Nigerian Students sought support ahead of its forthcoming national convention in Abuja.
The assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction during a strategic meeting with the President of NANS, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, and members of the association’s convention planning delegation at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement signed by Director of Information and Public Relations, Janet McDickson Noah, the Minister commended the student body for embracing dialogue and institutional engagement in addressing issues affecting Nigerian students.
He stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote national unity, youth inclusion, educational advancement and peaceful participation among young Nigerians.
Responding to requests presented by the delegation, the Minister assured the students that their proposals would be reviewed in line with established government procedures.
“We appreciate the proactive engagement by the leadership of Nigerian students. Your requests will be looked into accordingly and allowed to go through the necessary administrative and bureaucratic processes, after which appropriate responses will be communicated within the shortest possible time,” he said.
The Minister further noted that sustainable national development can only thrive when young people are meaningfully engaged and encouraged to contribute positively to nation-building.
Earlier, Director Valentine Ezulu of the Social Development Department welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Ministry and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining productive relationships with Nigerian students and youth-focused institutions.
He said the Ministry recognizes the strategic role students play in nation-building and social development, assuring the delegation of the Minister’s willingness to continue partnering with Nigerian students.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, briefed the Ministry on preparations for the association’s forthcoming convention, which he described as one of the largest gatherings of Nigerian students expected to hold in Abuja in the coming days.
He explained that the convention would bring together student leaders and representatives from tertiary institutions across the country for deliberations, leadership transition activities and discussions on issues affecting Nigerian students.
Oladoja stated that the current NANS leadership prioritizes “consultation, consolidation, communication before confrontation,” noting that peaceful engagement has helped in resolving several student-related concerns across campuses nationwide.
The student leader also commended the existing relationship between student leaders and government institutions, especially in areas concerning educational stability, students’ welfare and campus security.
The delegation appealed for the Ministry’s partnership and support towards the successful hosting of the convention, expressing optimism that sustained collaboration between government institutions and organized student bodies would strengthen national cohesion and promote constructive youth participation in governance.
