The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has confirmed its intention to protest nationwide over the recent petrol price hike, signalling a clear stance against the government’s economic policies.
Henry Okuomo, Senate President of NANS, announced during an interview on *Channels Television* on Friday, September 6.
Addressing the nation’s worsening economic conditions, Okuomo declared that the student body would no longer remain passive, as the fuel price increase has worsened the hardship faced by Nigerians, including students.
“We are not merely threatening a strike—this is what we are going to do,” Okuomo stated. “Nigerians are enduring unbearable hardship, and the government has further increased fuel prices. This affects us as students directly, and as leaders, we must stand up for the people.”
He went on to emphasize the sheer size and influence of the student population in Nigeria. “We represent over 40 million students across the country. It’s time our voices are heard. On the 15th of this month, we will hit the streets hard. There is no turning back.”
This statement comes after initial confusion over NANS’ stance on the protests. Earlier, NANS President Afeez Akinteye had denied reports that the association was planning any protest, dismissing a circulating memo as fake. Akinteye had called for security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation, suggesting that faceless individuals were using the NANS name to create unrest.
“We strongly urge the public and media to disregard these false reports,” Akinteye had said. “There are individuals trying to exploit the NANS name for malicious purposes, aiming to destabilize the country and stir unnecessary tension.”
Akinteye emphasized that NANS remains committed to peaceful advocacy for student rights, stressing that any actions taken would be within legal boundaries. “We are committed to peaceful and lawful advocacy. NANS stands for progress, peace, and the unity of Nigeria. We disassociate ourselves from any groups attempting to incite unrest using our name.”
Despite the earlier confusion, Okuomo’s latest declaration solidifies NANS’ plan to mobilize students for nationwide protests, as the organization prepares to take a stand on behalf of the millions affected by rising fuel prices and the broader economic crisis.
The protest is scheduled to take place on September 15, with NANS determined to make its collective voice heard across the nation.
