Abuja: The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Federal Government to strengthen security and improve the welfare of students across the country. The association made this call during a nationwide Democracy Day Walk held simultaneously in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Imo, Kano, and Gombe states to commemorate 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, NANS President Babatunde Akinteye highlighted that Democracy Day presents an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of democratic rule and the necessity to safeguard its benefits, particularly in terms of security and citizens’ welfare. The walk, which attracted students from various tertiary institutions, focused on advocating for stronger democratic institutions, improved security, and enhanced welfare for students.
Akinteye emphasized that Nigerian students are committed to the ideals of democracy and national development, having historically played significant roles in the country’s democratic evolution. He called for collective efforts from all Nigerians to protect and strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions and values.
The NANS president also expressed concern over the continued captivity of students abducted in Oyo and Borno states, urging the federal government to intensify efforts to secure their rescue and safe return. ‘While we celebrate the nation’s democratic progress, we appeal to the federal government to do everything within its capacity to ensure the rescue and safe return of our students who remain in captivity,’ he stated.
Akinteye commended security personnel for their sacrifices in maintaining peace and security across the country and urged them to sustain ongoing operations. He also lauded President Bola Tinubu for institutionalizing June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and for efforts to honor the memory of the late Chief M.K.O Abiola and other pro-democracy heroes, particularly members of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
The NANS president reiterated that students are active stakeholders in national development, consistently contributing to major social and political transformations in the country. ‘Our responsibility today is to deepen the culture of democratic participation within our institutions, communities, and in the choices we make as citizens of Nigeria,’ he added.
Akinteye assured students of his administration’s commitment to promoting their welfare and protecting their interests, pledging to continue advocating policies that support education and national development. He also paid tribute to past and present pro-democracy activists whose sacrifices have contributed to sustaining democratic governance despite political and social challenges.