Fuel hike: NANS demands upward review of students loan

Amidst the hike in the pump price of fuel, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the President Bola Tinubu-led government to increase the students loan from N20,000 to N40,000. NANS Senate President, Babatunde Akinteye, made the call during a news conference on the state of the nation in Abuja on Monday.

Akinteye said that this adjustment was necessary to help students cope with the rising cost of living while ensuring that they continue to pursue their education without undue financial strain. He also urged the Federal Government to reduce excessive government spending. He said that at a time when Nigerians were being asked to make sacrifices, it was only fair that those in power led by example. He called for calm, noting that the reforms by President Bola Tinubu would yield favourable outcomes.

“We find ourselves at a pivotal juncture in our nation’s history, where the weight of economic reforms has cast a shadow of discomfort, hunger and despair across our land. The reality we face today is daunting, and the uncertainty of these times cannot be understated.

Yet, amid these challenges, we must stand united and clear-headed. Burning down our country is not an option; it is not a solution. As the foremost student and youth movement in Africa, we share the same struggles, hopes, and aspirations as every Nigerian,” he said.

According to Akinteye, in moments like this, there is need for thoughtful and measured action rather than embarking on protest. Observing the current hardships, ranging from foreign exchange irregularities to fuel scarcity, skyrocketing food prices among others, he urged the government to tackle the problem headlong.

“We acknowledge that Nigerians, especially students, are severely impacted by the high fuel prices, as our economy is deeply tied to fuel. The ripple effect is felt most intensely by the lower class, and the cries of distress are understandable.

“However, it is crucial that we approach these issues with caution and strategy. The mood across the nation is one of anger, frustration, and desperation. Many Nigerians are on edge, waiting for a spark to ignite unrest but we must resist the temptation to react in haste. We are mindful of the importance of preserving life and liberty,” he said.

He stressed that the safety of every Nigerian student is a top priority of NANS. “We will not risk exposing them to danger by hastily calling for protests,” he said.