NANS Accused of Abandoning Student Advocacy for Political Agenda

A student-based organization, the Coalition of Nigerian Students (CNS), has expressed deep concern over the alleged deviation of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) from its core mission. The CNS claims that NANS has been manipulated into a vehicle for unfounded attacks and politically motivated propaganda, rather than serving as a genuine advocate for Nigerian students.

The coalition specifically condemned what they termed a distorted and politically charged statement issued by the NANS Senate president regarding Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed. They allege that NANS’ attempt to twist Mohammed’s comments on Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropic endeavors is a deliberate act of misrepresentation, aimed at misleading the public.

Speaking at a press conference in Bauchi, the CNS Northeast zonal coordinator, Comrade Saleh Ibrahim, argued that Shamsuddeen Mohammed raised a legitimate and crucial point: that genuine governance should not be substituted with politically driven handouts, and that Nigerian youth require sustainable solutions, not fleeting distractions.

Ibrahim emphasized that philanthropy should complement, not replace, effective governance. “Contrary to NANS’ assertions, Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed did not condemn philanthropy. Rather, he rightly questioned the use of philanthropy as a tool for political branding. The fundamental issue in Nigeria is not a lack of individual generosity, but the failure of government structures to provide enduring solutions,” he stated.

He further criticized the nature of Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropic efforts, stating, “Distributing cooked food on the streets, as Seyi Tinubu did, does not constitute an empowerment program. It is a temporary spectacle that does not address the underlying economic challenges faced by the people. True philanthropy should focus on building capacity, providing long-term support, and empowering communities permanently.”

The CNS also highlighted the youth empowerment initiatives of the Governor Bala Mohammed-led administration in Bauchi State, asserting that NANS’ inquiry into the governor’s achievements in this area reveals either ignorance or deliberate misinformation.
Comrade Saleh cited the state’s investments in ICT development, innovation hubs, and business incubation centers, which equip young people with digital and entrepreneurial skills.

“Over 20,000 youths have benefited from economic empowerment programs, including vocational training and business startup capital. The Kaura Youth and Women Economic Empowerment Programme (KEEP) has disbursed interest-free loans to entrepreneurs, fostering self-reliance rather than dependency,” Saleh explained.

He accused NANS of double standards, questioning their silence on critical issues affecting students, such as prolonged ASUU strikes, rising tuition fees, and graduate unemployment. “Where was NANS when ASUU was on strike for months, disrupting the education of thousands? Where were they when public universities increased tuition fees, making education unaffordable? And where are their voices regarding the lack of concrete job creation plans for graduates?” Saleh questioned.

The CNS challenged NANS to refocus its efforts on advocating for the genuine interests of Nigerian students, rather than functioning as a public relations arm for political figures. They stressed that Nigerian youth require tangible opportunities in business, education, and employment, not fleeting publicity stunts disguised as charity.