NANS warned that the invalidation could exacerbate youth unemployment, crime, and insecurity, as many affected students are already struggling in a challenging economic environment.
Lagos, Nigeria – The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest Zone has urged the federal government to reconsider its recent decision to invalidate degrees obtained from universities in the Republic of Benin and Togo.
The decision, which affects certificates issued from 2017 to date, impacts over 22,000 Nigerian students.
In a statement released by the NANS Southwest leadership, comprising Zonal Coordinator Comrade Alao John, Secretary General Comrade Sanni Sulaimon Olamide, and Public Relations Officer Comrade Bamigboye Peter Oluwadamilola, the student body expressed concern over the anxiety and uncertainty caused by the decision. NANS emphasized that the move threatens the stability and peace of the society by putting the future of these students in jeopardy.
“We are compelled to address the Nigerian Federal Government regarding the recent decision to invalidate degrees obtained from universities in Benin Republic and Togo from 2017 till date. This action, which affects over 22,000 Nigerian students, has triggered widespread anxiety and uncertainty, threatening the peace and stability of our society,” the statement read.
NANS highlighted the challenges faced by students who had invested significant resources into their education abroad, only to now find themselves uncertain about their future. The group noted that this decision contradicts the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu, which promises that no Nigerian student will be forced to abandon their education.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts to curb academic fraud and the rise of substandard educational institutions, NANS argued that the blanket invalidation of degrees is unfair and discriminatory. They stressed that many of the degrees in question were previously recognized by Nigerian authorities and called for a more nuanced approach.
“We urge the government to reconsider this decision, as it risks driving talented young Nigerians into the arms of unrest, insurrections, and anti-government activities,” the statement continued.
The apex student body warned that the invalidation could exacerbate youth unemployment, crime, and insecurity, as many affected students are already struggling in a challenging economic environment.
The association proposed that the government adopt a case-by-case review of affected institutions, working with regional education bodies to ensure standards are upheld. They also called for dialogue with affected students to provide alternatives and mitigate the fallout from the decision.
The statement concluded by appealing for federal intervention to protect the rights and futures of Nigerian students, urging the government to make a fair and practical decision that promotes peace and progress in the country.
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