The National Association of Nigerian Students has reaffirmed its commitment to the rescue of abducted students and teachers across the country, declaring support for advocacy efforts by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Nigeria Union of Teachers aimed at securing their safe return.
NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde, stated this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, amid growing concerns over the safety of students and education workers following recent abductions in parts of the country.
Akinteye said the student body remained focused on ensuring that all abducted students and teachers regain their freedom, stressing that NANS would continue to engage relevant authorities and mobilise support for efforts geared towards their rescue.
According to him, the association identifies with the concerns raised by organised labour, particularly the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, over the recurring incidents of kidnapping targeting schools and education personnel.
“The safety of students and teachers must remain a national priority. NANS will continue to support every legitimate effort aimed at securing the release of those in captivity and preventing future occurrences,” he said.
The NANS president said the recent wave of attacks on schools and education workers has created fear among students and parents, warning that insecurity could undermine access to education if urgent action is not taken.
“Education cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear. When students are afraid to go to school and teachers are uncertain of their safety, the future of the country is placed at risk. This is why all stakeholders must unite to confront this challenge,” he said.
Akinteye added that NANS would continue to work with labour unions, parents, community leaders and security agencies to sustain pressure on the government until the abductees are rescued.
“We commend the NLC and the NUT for standing up for the rights and safety of teachers and students. Their advocacy has helped draw national attention to the plight of the victims and the urgent need for stronger protection of schools,” he stated.
