The National Association of Nigerian Students has elected Akinteye Babatunde, a student of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, as its new national president following the conclusion of the association’s 2026 convention held at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja.
Akinteye, who previously served as Senate President of NANS, emerged winner after a closely contested election involving five candidates. He takes over from outgoing NANS President, Olushola Oladoja.
The convention was conducted under heavy security, with personnel from the police and the Department of State Services monitoring activities. Delegates and participants described the exercise as one of the most peaceful conventions in the history of the student body.
Speaking after his victory on Monday, Akinteye thanked delegates for the confidence reposed in him and promised to build on the achievements of the previous administration while promoting unity among students across the country.
According to him, the peaceful conduct of the convention reflected the unity within the association, noting that there were no reports of violence, clashes, or disputes throughout the election process. He added that all other contestants had congratulated him after the announcement of the results.
The newly elected president also assured Nigerian students that his administration would focus on students’ welfare and ensure the activities of NANS become more impactful across tertiary institutions nationwide.
Outgoing president, Oladoja, described the successful conduct of the election as one of the proudest moments of his tenure, expressing confidence in Akinteye’s ability to lead the association effectively. He prayed for wisdom and strength for the new leadership as it begins a fresh administration.
Earlier, Chairman of the Independent Convention Planning Committee, Omotayo Samuel, disclosed during the accreditation exercise at Kapital Club, Asokoro, that more than 300 delegates participated in the convention. The delegates included Student Union Government presidents, Senate presidents and other student representatives from institutions across Nigeria.
Samuel stated that the committee made adequate arrangements to ensure a free, fair and credible electoral process.
Other candidates who contested the presidency included students from Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Federal University of Technology Akure, Olabisi Onabanjo University and Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta.
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