The newly elected President of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), Comrade Josiah Peter Oche, has called on the Federal Government to maintain productive engagement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to prevent frequent strike actions that have disrupted academic activities in Nigerian universities.
Oche made this appeal during a media briefing after the 6th National Inauguration Ceremony of NAUS National Executives, themed “Transforming the Mentality of University Students through Digital Skills, Cyber Security, and Entrepreneurship.”
According to him, sustained dialogue between the government and ASUU is crucial to ensuring a stable and uninterrupted academic calendar for students across the country.
Oche reiterated that NAUS will actively engage the government and stakeholders to address financial barriers to education, ensuring that all willing and capable students have access to quality learning opportunities.
“We would advocate for the interests of the students. We recognize the diverse challenges we face as learners, ranging from academic struggles to financial pressures, from poor infrastructure to social welfare issues,” he said.
The NAUS President pledged to push for improved academic resources, modern libraries, affordable accommodation, and better living conditions for university students.
“As your President, I pledge to continue the fight for better academic resources, better living conditions, and better support for every single university student. This includes pushing for updated facilities, modern libraries, and more comfortable and affordable accommodation for all.”
Beyond infrastructure, Oche emphasized the need for better mental health services on campuses to ensure students receive adequate support.
“My exco and I will work to implement better mental health services on campuses and ensure that every student has access to support when they need it. We must prioritize the well-being of our peers because their mental health is just as important as their academic success.”
He also commended the Federal Government for the implementation of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that the initiative has eased financial burdens for students.
Oche urged NAUS members to embrace digital platforms to enhance student engagement, transparency, and participation.
“My mission as your President is clear: to protect and advance the welfare of students, to engage meaningfully with the federal government for policies that benefit us, and to transform our Association into a more dynamic, digital, and inclusive body,” he declared.
The NAUS President solicited continued support from students to foster an environment that promotes academic excellence, social well-being, and a brighter future for all university students.
With his commitment to policy advocacy, digital transformation, and improved student welfare, Comrade Oche has set the tone for a tenure focused on ensuring Nigerian students thrive academically and socially.
