Adeleke’s victory a “resounding vote of confidence - NANS

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has congratulated Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory in the August 15 governorship election. NANS described Adeleke's win as a "resounding vote of confidence," indicating the increasing political influence of students and young people in the state.

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Our disposition towards Governor Adeleke was not founded on empty sentiment. Students had the opportunity to assess an administration under which they had lived, studied and interacted for almost four years.

The Independent National Electoral Commission declared Adeleke the winner after he secured 511,067 votes, defeating his closest rival, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, who garnered 444,815 votes. NANS stated that students from major tertiary institutions across Osun State actively participated in the election.

NANS emphasized that their support for Governor Adeleke was based on a thorough assessment of his administration. "Students had the opportunity to assess an administration under which they had lived, studied and interacted for almost four years," the statement read. The association noted its engagement with the government, challenging shortcomings and acknowledging progress.

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Where government fell short, we challenged it. Where our members were affected, we confronted the issues. Where progress was made, we acknowledged it.

While commending President Bola Tinubu, INEC, security agencies, observers, and civil society for their roles in the election, NANS urged Adeleke to implement a comprehensive student-centered agenda. This includes increased investment in state tertiary institutions, improved infrastructure, functional healthcare facilities, enhanced campus security, sustainable transportation, scholarships, entrepreneurship support, and graduate employment opportunities. NANS stressed that students expect their institutions to be environments where they can pursue education with dignity and confidence in their future.

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We expect increased investment in state-owned tertiary institutions, improved infrastructure, functional healthcare facilities on our campuses, stronger security within campuses and surrounding communities, sustainable transportation interventions, bursaries and scholarships, entrepreneurship support, graduate employment opportunities and a stronger institutional framework for direct engagement between government and the student community.