Former NANS Leaders Forum Addresses Nation’s State: Calls for Hope Amidst Challenges

Maryam Aminu

The Former NANS Leaders Forum, a coalition of past leaders of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), held a press conference today at the NUJ Press Centre in Jabi, Abuja.

The forum, representing former student leaders, voiced deep concerns over the prevailing economic and social hardships in Nigeria, offering a set of recommendations aimed at alleviating the current challenges.

The forum highlighted the severe hardship and escalating tension in Nigeria, marked by rising inflation, widespread unemployment, and economic instability.

They noted the immediate adverse effects of the fuel subsidy removal, which led to increased fuel prices and a subsequent rise in transportation and goods costs.

“The Exchange Rate Unification, intended to curb corruption, has also resulted in a sharp devaluation of the Naira, increasing import costs and inflation.” They added

Despite these challenges, the forum acknowledged positive government initiatives such as the Students’ Loan program and the temporary removal of import duties on essential food items. These measures are seen as steps towards providing relief to struggling households and ensuring access to higher education for students from less privileged backgrounds.

The Former NANS Leaders Forum proposed several actionable recommendations to mitigate the current socio-economic challenges:
Implement policies to address high inflation rates, stabilize the Naira, control food prices, and subsidize essential goods temporarily.

They called for heavily Investment in infrastructure, including roads, power supply, and security, to support economic diversification and sustainable growth.

They advocated for consistent and transparent policy communication to build investor confidence and promote economic stability.

The forum urged the government to strengthen security measures, particularly in rural and farming areas, to enhance agricultural production.

Further recommendations include: subsidizing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to reduce transportation and energy costs, Introducing a lease model for public transportation to improve accessibility and affordability. And Involve independent monitoring groups to ensure transparency and accountability in implementing intervention programs.

The forum also addressed the widespread calls for nationwide protests due to the high cost of living, inadequate healthcare services, and economic instability.

While empathizing with the frustrations of Nigerians, the forum stated that it would engage with relevant stakeholders and organizations before making its position on the protest known.

In response to the overwhelming call from its members, the Former NANS Leaders Forum announced a national retreat scheduled for August 28-30, 2024, in Abuja.

The retreat aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among former student leaders to contribute to governance and democracy in Nigeria.

The Former NANS Leaders Forum reiterated its commitment to contributing to governance and promoting a stable democracy in Nigeria.

They expressed readiness to collaborate with the government, civil society, and other stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of democracy reach every corner of the nation.

Signed,
Comr. Alhaji Tijani Kabiru, NANS President 1999/2000, National Convener/Admin

Comr. Sir. Ambrose Obioha KSM, National Director of Sports NANS 1996/1997, Deputy National Convener/Admin

Comr. Ogolo Victory (KSC) Former Vice President Ex-Affairs/Members

Engr.Kasali Omotayo Nat. caucus Leader/Member

George Uzor
Former National Mobilization Officer/Admin

Comrade Adakole Ochai
Committee Secretary/Member

Comr. Etsu Mohammed
Former Chairman Convention/Member

Igwe Martins
Secretary

Princess Mimi
Treasurer/Admin

Comr. Umelo Uzodinma
Former Senate President/Member

Comr. Chinedu Klinsman
Former Director Sports/Member