A student leader, Comr. Nwuruku Olisa Alfred, has formally declared his intention to contest for the position of President of the Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), pledging to reposition the chamber as a functional legislative institution for Nigerian students.
In a statement announcing his bid, Alfred said his decision followed “profound reflection and extensive consultations with leaders and stakeholders across the student movement.”
“I hereby formally declare my intention to contest for the office of President of the Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students,” he said.
He noted that Nigerian students were at a critical point in the country’s educational and national development, stressing that the student body must play an active role in shaping policies that affect the sector.
According to him, the NANS Senate must function beyond ceremonial duties and serve as a vibrant legislative arm that defends student interests and strengthens democratic ideals within the association.
“The Senate must not merely exist as a ceremonial arm of our Association. It must function as a living legislative institution, a guardian of student democracy, and a strategic platform through which the collective aspirations of Nigerian students are articulated and advanced,” he said.
Alfred said his aspiration for the position was built on years of involvement in the student movement, including his work within the Directorates of Special Duties and Inter-Campus Affairs at the NANS headquarters.
Reflecting on his experience, he said the strength of the student movement lies in collective leadership and coordinated action.
“Through these experiences, one lesson consistently stood out: the strength of NANS lies in the courage of its leaders to believe in possibility,” he stated.
Unveiling his campaign mantra, “Yes, We Can,” Alfred said his leadership would focus on rebuilding the legislative dignity of the Senate and strengthening its influence in national conversations affecting students.
“If entrusted with the responsibility of leading the NANS Senate, my leadership will prioritise procedural discipline, legislative productivity and full participation of senators across campuses,” he said.
He also outlined key priorities, including consolidating the voice of Nigerian students in national discourse, strengthening institutional accountability within NANS, advancing policies for student welfare, and promoting unity across the student movement.
“At a time when economic realities and policy decisions significantly affect students, the Senate must emerge as a credible voice in national conversations on education funding, institutional stability and student welfare,” Alfred added.
He called on members of the association to support his candidacy, expressing confidence that the student body could collectively strengthen the institution.
“I therefore humbly seek your trust, your support, and your partnership as we embark on this mission to strengthen the Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students,” he said.
