In a town hall meeting organized for youths, students, and civil society members ahead of the planned August 1 protest, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) emphasized that Nigerian students are adamant about not disrupting academic calendars in educational institutions for any protests.
During the meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, NANS National President, Lucky Emonefe, urged students and youths to refrain from engaging in protests and to uphold the law.
Moving forward, Emonefe stressed, “Our priority is to maintain our academic schedule as it holds immense importance to us. Resorting to demonstrations can lead to chaos, disturbances of public peace, and destruction of property.”
Despite acknowledging the challenges of economic hardship, Emonefe suggested that dialogue with the government could be a more productive way to address grievances and policy issues.
Recognizing the significance of the meeting, Emonefe praised the convener while noting the platform it provided for youth voices in expressing concerns.
In his remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students’ Matters, Sunday Ashefon, urged youths and students to refrain from participating in the August 1 protest. He viewed the gathering as a positive sign that the youth were engaged in the government’s efforts to alleviate the country’s hardships.