By Adesina Wahab 

In line with the directive of the national leadership, the Lagos Axis of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, held a solidarity walk to mark this year’s Democracy Day.

The exercise was carried out in line with the directive of the National President of NANS, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, and was led by the Chairman of NANS JCC Lagos, Quadri Ishola Odewunmi, alongside the NANS Zone D Public Relations Officer, Olugbemi Tope Timothy, with the support of the Zonal Coordinator, Adeyemo Josiah Kayode.

The student leaders demanded more action on insecurity and student welfare.

Speaking on the occasion, Odewunmi said, “In commemoration of Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lagos State Joint Campus Committee (JCC), today embarked on a solidarity walk to the Lagos State Government, reaffirming students’ commitment to democracy and national development.”

The solidarity walk to the Lagos State Government House was aimed at celebrating the gains of democracy, expressing support for the government, and advocating renewed efforts towards addressing the country’s security challenges. 

The students also used the occasion to call attention to some reforms and policies which, though conceived with good intentions, have imposed severe hardship on Nigerians and require more people-oriented implementation.

NANS Lagos JCC commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his resilience and commitment to national development. 

The association equally appreciated the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Union Affairs, Hon. Samuel Olawale Kappo, for their support and commitment to students’ development in Lagos State.

They, however, made some demands from the Lagos State government, it included; compensation and recognition for victims of the June 12, 2017 accident. 

“NANS Lagos JCC demands adequate compensation and official recognition for all victims of the unfortunate June 12, 2017 accident, which occurred in the course of activities connected to the June 12 struggle and student leadership engagements.

“The twelve (12) victims suffered varying degrees of injuries and trauma. Particularly affected were the then Chairman of NANS Lagos, Moses Samson Adewale (SMS), and Alimi Olamilekan, both of whom sustained severe and life-changing injuries. Alimi Olamilekan has undergone several surgeries and continues to endure the physical and emotional consequences of the incident.

“Consequently, NANS Lagos JCC calls on the Lagos State Government to provide appropriate compensation, rehabilitation support, and formal recognition for all affected individuals in appreciation of their sacrifices.

“Provision of mobility support for NANS Lagos JCC and tertiary institutions. NANS Lagos JCC appeals to the Lagos State Government to provide mobility support to enhance effective students’ representation and coordination across campuses.

“The Joint Campus Committee and the ten (10) tertiary institutions in Lagos State require operational vehicles and transportation support to facilitate efficient administration, strengthen engagement with relevant stakeholders, and promote inter-campus collaboration.

“Employment opportunities for student leaders. Recognizing the immense contributions of student leaders to leadership development, youth mobilization, conflict resolution, and community engagement, NANS Lagos JCC calls on the Lagos State Government to create employment opportunities for qualified and committed student leaders who have distinguished themselves through service and dedication to society.

“NANS Lagos JCC reiterates its unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, constructive engagement, and the pursuit of policies that promote the welfare of Nigerian students and the broader society. While celebrating 27 years of democracy, the association emphasizes that the dividends of democracy must translate into improved security, economic opportunities, and enhanced educational development for all.”