As Nigerians from all walks of life continue to feel the negative impact brought about by the removal of fuel subsidies, the umbrella body of students, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the Federal Government to design a student-centred palliative plan.
Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, NANS President of the Senate, lamented that Nigerian students who are suffering the pangs of economic hardship have been neglected, saying the resultant rise in the cost of living has placed an additional burden on students.
He said, “Students represent a vulnerable demographic, and the ripple effects of subsidy removal directly affect our ability to pursue education.
” The increased transportation costs, resulting from hike in fuel prices, disproportionately impact students who often rely on public transportation. This surge in daily expenses exacerbates the financial strain already faced by many students.
“In light of these challenges, we call upon the Federal Government to design and implement a palliative plan that directly addresses the needs of Nigerian students.
“A well-structured plan could include targeted financial assistance, subsidies on essential goods, and increased funding for education to mitigate the indirect consequences of subsidy removal.
To guide against diversion and ensure transparency in the engagement with students, NANS suggested student representation involvement in the design and execution of such a plan.
The association appealed to the federal government to assuage and demonstrate its commitment to prioritizing education and safeguarding the aspirations of the nation’s future leaders by implementing a comprehensive palliative plan for its members.
