The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the federal government to strengthen security and enhance welfare support for students across the country.
The student body made the call on Friday during a nationwide Democracy Day walk held in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Imo, Kano, and Gombe to mark 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.
Speaking in Port Harcourt, NANS President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, said Democracy Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress of Nigeria’s democratic journey and the need to safeguard its core benefits, particularly security and citizens’ welfare.
He said students across the country remain committed to democratic ideals and national development, noting that the student community has historically played a key role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic progress.
According to him, “Democracy Day offers a moment to reflect on the gains of democracy and the need to protect its core benefits, particularly security and citizens’ welfare.”
Akinteye said the nationwide walk drew students from numerous tertiary institutions across the participating states, with participants calling for stronger democratic institutions, improved security architecture, and greater attention to student welfare.
He also paid tribute to past and present democracy activists, saying their sacrifices helped sustain democratic governance despite political and social challenges.
“We remain committed to democratic ideals and national development. Students have always been part of Nigeria’s democratic evolution, and we will continue to play that role responsibly,” he said.
Raising concern over insecurity, Akinteye expressed worry about the continued captivity of students abducted in Oyo and Borno States, urging the federal government to intensify efforts toward their immediate rescue and safe return.
“We are deeply concerned about our colleagues still in captivity. Government must do more to ensure their safe return,” he said.
While commending security agencies for their sacrifices, he called for sustained and more coordinated operations to achieve lasting peace across the country.
Akinteye also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for consolidating June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and for honouring the memory of the late Chief MKO Abiola and other pro-democracy figures, including members of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
He urged Nigerians to remain united in protecting democratic institutions and values, stressing that collective responsibility is essential to strengthening national stability and development.