The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has called on the federal government to review the student loan upkeep from N20,000 to N40,000, saying the review became necessary in view of the current inflation in the country.
The students body also appealed to the government to prioritize reducing excessive government spending, noting that it was only fair that those in power lead by example at a time Nigerians were being asked to make sacrifices.
NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, who spoke at a news conference, in Abuja, said Nigerians, especially students, were facing hardship as a result of recent increments in fuel prices.
Even as he said students were not happy over the increments which he noted,have worsened their plight,he, however,ruled out protest by students as a solution to draw government's attention to the development.
Noting that the removal of fuel subsidies was intended for the greater good of Nigerian citizens, Mr Babatunde insisted that it was important to approach the issues with caution and strategy.
He said."While we understand that the removal of fuel subsidies aims to benefit the greater good, we request visible benefits amid the current hardship. Furthermore, we call for the dismissal of non-performing ministers. Many ministries have been passive, indifferent, and silent, failing to communicate their plans or progress to the Nigerian people. It is time for a more dynamic and accountable government.
"In addition, we urge the government to prioritize reducing excessive government spending. At a time when Nigerians are being asked to make sacrifices, it is only fair that those in power lead by example.
"In light of the financial difficulties facing students, we also take this opportunity to appeal to the government to increase the student loan upkeep from N20,000 to N40,000. This adjustment is essential to help students cope with the rising cost of living and ensure they can continue their education without undue financial strain."
He informed that NANS has resolved to take its demands directly to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, and the government.
"To this end, we are constituting a 10-man committee representing all structures of NANS to engage with these bodies within the next week. Our goal is to present our demands, highlight possible solutions, and expedite efforts to reduce fuel prices while securing tangible solutions to the challenges we face," he added.
The NANS Senate President called on security agencies to address decisively any individuals or groups attempting to disturb the peace of the country under the guise of NANS.
According to him,NANS would rather engage in constructive engagement with the government and other stakeholders with a view to resolving their grievances than taking actions inimical to the nation's progress.
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