Decries power supply situation on campuses

By Adesina Wahab

The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Joint Campus Council, JCC, Lagos has elected new leaders with Comrade Abdul-Quadri emerging the new chairman.

Speaking on the emergence of his team, he gave the assurance that they would not betray the confidence reposed in them by student leaders from various higher institutions in Lagos State.

He said, “The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) JCC Lagos election, held on December 14, 2024, was a resounding success, characterized by peace and fairness. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era in student leadership, as the election produced a new team of dedicated executives committed to serving the students’ interests.

“At this juncture, I am compelled to express our esteemed regards to all the senators and observers that made out time and traveled from their comfort zone to witness the NANS Convention held at Lagos state University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH). I wish to state my deep gratitude to all the senators for considering me worthy, hence voting me as the Chairman of the august gathering.

“I, and by extension the entire Nigerian student body, owe immense gratitude to the immediate past administration, led by Comrade Alimi Lekan Idris, for his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to the Association. His commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent election laid the foundation for this new era of Leadership.

“In the same vein, I must give kudos to the personable and indefatigable members of the NANS Convention Planning Committee led by Comrade Iwalokun Lawrence and Comrade Badmus Uthman, for their assiduous efforts and the unbridled deployment of their vast experiences towards ensuring that the process saw the light of day.”

Commenting on developments at the University of Lagos, he noted,” The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is currently facing a severe crisis stemming from hostel accommodation challenges. This has compelled the university management to enforce online classes for students, which has significantly undermined academic activities. The economic realities faced by students and their families, coupled with the inherent challenges of virtual learning, have further exacerbated the situation.

“Despite the recent increase in tuition fees and, notably, the hike in utility charges from ₦15,000 to ₦40,000, students have not been allowed to utilize on-campus facilities for nearly the entirety of the first semester. Yet, they are being forced to pay these exorbitant fees for services they have not accessed. This unjust practice has added to the financial burden of students and their families, raising questions about fairness and accountability in the administration’s policies.

He also condemned power supply situation at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology, LASUSTECH, Ikorodu, saying, “The current situation in Ikorodu is quite challenging, particularly concerning the issue of electricity. The students have been placed in band A, which has four units costing 1,000. We’ve attempted to communicate our concerns through a letter requesting this adjustment, but unfortunately, we have not received a response. The most disheartening aspect that everyone is expressing frustration over is that, despite being in band A, we’re only getting about 4 hours of power instead of the expected 20 hours in a 24-hour period.

“Additionally, the housing situation is becoming increasingly concerning as well; it’s shocking to see single rooms renting for over 100,000. This is a tough time for many, and it’s important that we find a solution to these pressing issues.”

He called for an urgent resolution of the situation.

He commended the leadership style of the Rector of the Yaba College of Technology, YABATECH, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, saying he has positively impacted on the institution since he came to office.