The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced its intention to engage in dialogue with the Federal Government over the recent hike in Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) prices, rather than resorting to protests immediately. NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, stated during a press briefing in Abuja:
“Dialogue is the first and most prudent step. We will seek avenues for constructive engagement with the government and other stakeholders to address our grievances. Protests should only be a last resort, not the first option.”
Akinteye also called for the dismissal of non-performing ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet and urged the government to increase the student loan maintenance allowance from N20,000 to N40,000 to help students cope with the rising cost of living.
“We acknowledge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts and those of his administration in implementing reforms aimed at steering the country towards growth and stability. However, we urge the President to consider the plight of ordinary Nigerians as these reforms take shape,” Akinteye added.