By Newsmata
Emerging the new National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, on Thursday, Olusola Oladoja, a student at the University of Jos, has promised to focus on securing employment opportunities for graduates by partnering with the government and private sector to create viable job placements.
Oladoja said his leadership would also work on reforming and strengthening the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, to ensure that students have better access to education financing and post-graduation support.
Oladoja’s election alongside other members of the executive, took place at the national convention of the association, which was concluded in the early hours of Thursday.
A statement by Suleiman Seriku, the Chairman of the Convention Committee, said Anzaku Shedrack was elected the General Secretary.
The statement read:
“The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has successfully elected a new set of leaders at its convention held on February 26, 2025, at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja. The election, which was widely described as free, fair, and peaceful, marked a historic moment in the annals of NANS, setting a new precedent for democratic transition within the student body.
“Emerging as the new National President is Comrade Oladoja Olusola, who is expected to lead the association with a vision of unity, student welfare, and national progress.
“Anzaku Shedrack was elected as the General Secretary, while Usman Adamu clinched the position of Senate President. Other key positions filled included Adeyemi Samson as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) and Adejuwon Olatunji as the Assistant Secretary General amongst others.
“Unlike past elections which were often marred by tension and controversy, this year’s convention was peaceful, well-organised, and widely accepted as one of the most transparent elections in NANS’ history. Delegates and student representatives from various institutions across the country participated actively, ensuring a credible and democratic process.”
Speaking after the announcement of the results, Oladoja expressed gratitude to Nigerian students for their confidence in him and pledged to prioritise student welfare, educational development, and advocacy for improved policies affecting students nationwide.
“This victory is not just for me but for every Nigerian student. We will work together to ensure that NANS remains a strong voice for students across the country,” he stated.
Similarly, other elected officials reaffirmed their commitment to serve diligently and uphold the interests of students, emphasising the need for unity, academic excellence, and engagement with relevant stakeholders to drive positive change.
“My administration will focus on repositioning NANS to be truly student-centred, proactive, and impactful. We will foster unity among Nigerian students, engage relevant stakeholders in meaningful dialogue, and ensure that our advocacy translates into tangible results.
“Our top priorities will include education, student welfare, and the protection of students’ rights. We will push for policies that enhance the standard of learning and improve the quality of education across institutions.
“Additionally, we will focus on securing employment opportunities for graduates by partnering with the government and private sector to create viable job placements. We will also work on reforming and strengthening NELFUND to ensure that students have better access to education financing and post-graduation support.
“Alongside other key initiatives, we are committed to making NANS a true force for positive change in the lives of Nigerian students.”
The peaceful conduct of the election has been lauded as a milestone in NANS’ history, setting a new standard for democratic transitions within the student body. Many stakeholders, including former student leaders, commended the electoral process and urged the newly elected executives to work in harmony and dedication for the betterment of Nigerian students.