The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Ogun State has asked the state government to increase funding for tertiary institutions. They said more money is needed to keep schools stable and to improve the welfare of both staff and students.
The appeal was made on Wednesday during the NANS Inauguration and Education Summit held at the Ogun State Polytechnic of Health and Applied Sciences, Ilese-Ijebu.
At the event, themed “Strategizing Towards a Qualitative Education in Ogun State: The Need for Stakeholders’ Synergy,” the students complained that many campuses do not get enough funding. This affects teaching quality, staff motivation, and the learning environment. They said increasing subventions will help schools operate better and provide good welfare, quality education, and a conducive environment.
The state chairman of NANS, Gabriel Abiola Francis, said schools in Ogun State urgently need better infrastructure—modern classrooms, working laboratories, hostels, libraries, safe learning spaces, and good transportation. He said these things are necessary for quality education, not luxuries. He called on Governor Dapo Abiodun and other stakeholders to make infrastructure renewal a top priority.
Francis also pushed for an increase in subventions to tertiary institutions, saying proper funding is essential for stability. He further asked the government to revive and expand bursary and scholarship programmes. According to him, bursaries help students stay in school, encourage academic excellence, and support families during tough economic times. He urged the government to create a fair, timely, and transparent bursary system that provides yearly support to all eligible Ogun State students.
In his goodwill message, the NANS National PRO, Comrade Adeyemi Ajasa, advised the new chairman, Comrade Francis, and his team to stay focused on the main goals of the student movement. He warned them to know the difference between loyalty and blind obedience. He emphasized that their loyalty should be to the students they represent, not to any individual or political interest.
Ajasa said, “Your loyalty must be to the students and the progressive ideals of NANS, not to any person or political influence that threatens your integrity or the association’s mission.”
