Africa (Commonwealth Union) The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a fervent appeal to the federal government, urging swift and effective measures to address the growing economic deprivation and hunger afflicting Nigerians. In a statement released on Saturday, Abdulyekinn Odunayo, Clerk of the Senate at NANS headquarters, highlighted the pressing need for policies that could revitalize the nation’s economy and provide relief to its citizens.
Odunayo criticized the current administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for exacerbating the economic plight of Nigerians. He described the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira as dual economic blows that have deepened poverty and heightened living costs. “Many families can no longer afford a single meal a day, let alone three. The free fall of our currency against international currencies has compounded the struggles of Nigerians,” Odunayo lamented.
The student leader called on the government to implement comprehensive short-term, medium-term, and long-term economic strategies aimed at alleviating poverty, reducing inflation, and stabilizing the naira. He stressed that urgent action is needed to halt the spiraling cost of essential goods, which has left millions of Nigerians struggling to survive.
Reflecting on the dashed hopes of Nigerians who anticipated economic recovery under Tinubu’s administration, Odunayo noted that instead of relief, citizens have witnessed unprecedented hikes in food prices and essential commodities.
The economic crisis has also significantly impacted students, many of whom can no longer afford to continue their education. While acknowledging the implementation of a student loan scheme as a positive step, NANS emphasized that it is not enough to address the broader challenges. Odunayo advocated for a complete overhaul of the economy to fulfill the government’s promise of good governance and improved living conditions.
He underscored the urgency of creating policies that balance immediate relief with sustainable growth, ensuring that all Nigerians—especially students—can thrive in a stable economic environment. NANS reiterated its commitment to representing the voices of Nigerian students and holding the government accountable for its promises of progress and development.
The call from NANS echoes the frustrations of millions across the country, highlighting the need for decisive leadership and strategic reforms to navigate the nation out of its current economic predicament.
