ABEOKUTA– A presidential aspirant to the National Associate of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Dotun Opaleye has called for the conversion of NELFUND loan to grants
Opaleye stated this at his official declaration held at the NUJ Secretariat, Iwe iroyin, Abeokuta, in Ogun state, Wednesday.
The Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB) student added that the burden of an education loan will be too stifling for young graduates who are not assured of finding their feet in Nigeria’s labour market.
He however said that where the government cannot provide a full free education, an educational grants will make education more affordable for Nigerian students.
“For too long, the Nigerian student has endured neglect, broken promises, and policies made without our input. We have faced inadequate infrastructure, rising school fees, insecurity on campuses, and an education system that does not reflect the future we deserve. Yet, through it all, the resilience of the Nigerian student has never wavered.
“That is why I am stepping forward. Our struggle is not for personal aggrandizement but for collective liberation. Under my leadership, NANS will return to its roots: a fearless, united, and purposeful body that defends the rights and welfare of every Nigerian students.
“We will fight for affordable education, improved hostel conditions, and accessible healthcare on all campuses.
“We will partner with the Nigerian government and stakeholders to push for conversion of NELFUND from a loan to a grant. The burden of an education loan will be too stifling for young graduates who are not assured of finding their feet in Nigeria’s labour market.
“NANS must speak with one voice. I will ensure inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in all our affairs. No zone, no faculty, no student will be left behind”, he said
