The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to give priority to former student leaders in its forthcoming primaries, saying the move would deepen youth representation and strengthen the party’s electoral appeal.
The call was made on Wednesday during the presentation of a House of Representatives nomination form to the immediate past NANS president, Lucky Emonefe, who is contesting to represent the Ethiope Federal Constituency of Delta State.
Speaking at the event, NANS President, Olusola Ladoja, said the association decided to purchase the form for Emonefe in recognition of his leadership and service to students nationwide.
“We took the decision to purchase the nomination form for Comrade Lucky Emonefe in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to the student body during his tenure,” Ladoja said.
He argued that former student leaders possess the grassroots experience and leadership exposure required to succeed in elective positions, urging the APC to tap into that advantage.
“We urge the APC to give due consideration to former student leaders aspiring for elective positions, particularly Comrade Emonefe,” he added.
Ladoja noted that Emonefe’s role in advancing initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, as well as his alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, makes him a strong contender.
According to him, opening the political space to young leaders with proven track records would attract significant support from students across the country.
“The ruling party stands to gain massive backing from students if individuals with strong backgrounds in student leadership are given the opportunity to serve,” he said.
Responding, Emonefe described the gesture as both surprising and encouraging, saying it reflected the confidence Nigerian students have in his leadership.
“This gesture is both surprising and encouraging. It shows the trust and belief reposed in me by Nigerian students,” he said.
He pledged to prioritise youth development, education, and economic empowerment if elected, while also promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
“I remain committed to delivering effective and people-centred representation,” Emonefe added.
The event drew the attendance of student leaders and stakeholders, many of whom commended NANS for advocating greater youth participation in politics.
NANS, the umbrella body for students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, has long served as a platform for grooming future political leaders, with many former activists transitioning into national politics.
The latest call comes amid increasing demands for political parties to reflect Nigeria’s youthful population in their candidate selection, especially as issues such as education funding, unemployment, and youth empowerment remain central to national discourse.
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