The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to constructive youth engagement and policies aimed at improving the welfare and development of Nigerian students across the country.
The assurance was given by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction during a strategic meeting with the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Olushola Oladoja, and members of his delegation at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
During the meeting, the minister commended the leadership of NANS for adopting dialogue, consultation and institutional engagement in addressing issues affecting students nationwide.
He stated that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting initiatives capable of promoting national unity, youth inclusion, educational advancement and peaceful participation among young Nigerians.
Responding to requests presented by the student body, the minister assured the delegation that their proposals would be reviewed in line with government procedures and institutional processes.
“We appreciate the proactive engagement by the leadership of Nigerian students. Your requests will be looked into accordingly and allowed to go through the necessary administrative and bureaucratic processes, after which appropriate responses will be communicated within the shortest possible time,” the minister said.
He further stressed that sustainable national development can only thrive when young people are meaningfully engaged and encouraged to contribute positively to nation-building.
According to him, the ministry remains open to partnerships with responsible youth-led organisations and stakeholders focused on improving the lives and future prospects of Nigerians.
Earlier, Director Valentine Ezulu of the Social Development Department welcomed the NANS delegation on behalf of the ministry and reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining cordial and productive relationships with Nigerian students and youth-focused institutions.
“On behalf of the Honourable Minister, I assure you of his continued partnership and willingness to always work with Nigerian students in order to ensure that the future of our youths is guaranteed in this country,” Ezulu stated.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, NANS President Comrade Olushola Oladoja briefed the minister on preparations for the association’s upcoming national convention expected to hold in Abuja.
According to him, the convention will bring together student leaders and representatives from tertiary institutions across the country for discussions on educational development, leadership transition and issues affecting Nigerian students.
Oladoja noted that the current NANS leadership has consistently prioritised dialogue and consultation over confrontation in resolving student-related issues.
He explained that the association operates based on the principles of the “4Cs — consultation, consolidation, communication before confrontation,” adding that the approach has produced positive outcomes in addressing students’ concerns across campuses.
The NANS president also commended the growing relationship between student leaders and government institutions, particularly in areas concerning educational stability, student welfare and campus security.
He added that the planned convention would serve as a strategic platform for young Nigerians to engage in conversations around national development, governance and youth participation.
The delegation appealed for the ministry’s support toward the successful hosting of the convention, expressing optimism that stronger collaboration between government agencies and student organisations would help promote national cohesion and constructive youth participation in governance.