The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) announced on Monday its intention to engage in dialogue with the Federal Government regarding the recent hike in Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) prices. While emphasizing that nationwide protests would be a last resort, NANS called for the dismissal of non-performing ministers within President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
During a press briefing in Abuja, NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, outlined the association’s concerns and proposed solutions, including increasing the student loan maintenance allowance from N20,000 to N40,000 to help students cope with rising living costs.
Akinteye stressed that dialogue is the “most prudent step” and that NANS seeks to exhaust all negotiation channels before considering protests. He acknowledged President Tinubu’s reforms but urged that policies be implemented gradually to ease the burden on citizens.
Additionally, NANS called for accountability within government ministries, reduced government spending, and tangible benefits from the fuel subsidy removal. A 10-member committee will engage relevant bodies to push for these demands.