Urgent Call for Reforms in Critical Sectors: Forum Urges President Tinubu to Take Action
The Forum of former Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) has respectfully petitioned President Bola Tinubu to undertake substantial reforms in pivotal areas such as education, health, agriculture, transportation, and security. This request is accompanied by commendation for the recent appointments made within his administration.
Comprising former student leaders from tertiary institutions nationwide, the forum represents individuals who were actively involved in student unionism and activism, many of whom have since transitioned into professional, expert, business, and leadership roles in various fields.
In a statement issued by the convener, Wole Badmus and the secretary, Olayinka Dada, JP, the forum expressed their pleasure at the opportunity to convene for their Annual conference, held on November 30th, 2023, in Abuja. They commended President Tinubu for the appointment of young individuals as ministers in the Youth Ministry, acknowledging the necessity for fresh perspectives to tackle the current challenges faced by the youth populace.
The forum emphasized the urgency of enacting reforms in key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, transportation, petroleum, mining, and security to meet the demands of the modern world. They also voiced contentment with President Tinubu’s interventions, particularly in the education sector, highlighting initiatives like the student loan program and the directive to tertiary institutions not to increase school fees in light of the country’s challenging economic situation.
Furthermore, the forum lauded the appointment of Asefon Sunday, a former President of NANS, as the senior special assistant to the president on Student Engagement. They expressed confidence in his capability to bring unwavering dedication and valuable experience to his new role, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in his leadership.
The forum also petitioned President Tinubu to implement policies aimed at addressing the security challenges facing the nation, particularly those affecting the youth constituency. They advocated for youth empowerment and access to learning, stressing the importance of guiding graduates towards small and medium-scale businesses to enhance economic growth and prosperity.
Additionally, the forum formally congratulated the newly elected leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and urged the elected executives to steadfastly pursue advocacy and programs for the improvement of the student constituency.
In conclusion, the forum reiterated their dedication to supporting President Tinubu’s success and the advancement of Nigerian students, underscoring the need for proactive measures and decisive action in critical sectors to drive positive change and development.
