A new leadership has emerged for the National Association of Nigerian Students, Joint Campus Committee, Ogun State, with a pledge to confront injustices and reposition student representation across the state.
The newly elected chairman, Olabode Faruq, described his emergence as a collective mandate for progress, promising to prioritise unity, accountability and a student-focused agenda. His emergence followed what stakeholders at the convention hailed as a transparent and credible electoral process.
Faruq won the election conducted on Saturday with seven votes out of a total of 13.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, the new chairman stressed, “This victory is not mine alone; it is a collective mandate for progress, unity, and purposeful representation.
“Under my watch, no student will be subjected to injustice, no matter how small. We will stand firm, speak boldly, and act decisively in the defence of student rights and dignity.”
The convention, which drew participants from the 13 accredited tertiary institutions across Ogun State, also attracted notable figures within the student movement.
Faruq commended the National President of NANS, Olushola Oladoja and the Southwest Zonal Coordinator of the students movement, Adeyemo Kayode, for what he called an “unwavering commitment to democratic ideals.”
He further praised the Independent Convention Planning Committee, led by Akinbodunse Praise, for delivering what he described as a credible, transparent, and commendable electoral process, noting that their efforts had strengthened democratic culture within the student movement.
Beyond the election, the new leadership acknowledged the role of the Ogun State Government in fostering an enabling environment for youth participation.
However, the transition was not without controversy, as the NANS chairman-elect condemned a post-election attack on the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Matters, Adeyemi Amoo.
He noted, “It is with a deep sense of concern that I address the unfortunate incident involving an attack on Comrade Adeyemi Azeez.
“On behalf of the entire NANS Ogun JCC leadership, I extend sincere sympathy and strongly condemn this act of violence and lawlessness. Such behaviour has no place in our movement.”
Faruq disclosed that he would personally visit the victim to express solidarity, while also commending security operatives for maintaining order during the convention.
He added, “At the same time, we have received reports alleging that certain elements within the security structure may have acted outside the bounds of professionalism.
“We take these allegations seriously and will engage the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation.”
Calling for unity among stakeholders, Faruq urged student leaders, institutional authorities, and government partners to embrace collaboration over division.
He said, “The challenges before us demand more than participation; they require unity of purpose and deliberate action.
“My administration is committed to an inclusive, transparent, and student-centred leadership model.
“With this mandate, NANS in Ogun State has been firmly returned to the students. Together, we begin a new chapter.”
Congratulating the new chairman, the association’s zonal coordinator, Kayode, who was present at the convention on Saturday, described the victory as symbolic beyond personal success, stressing that it represents renewed hope for student advocacy and unity.
“This victory is not just a personal achievement, but a bold reflection of the trust, confidence, and collective aspiration of student leaders across Ogun State for a vibrant, purposeful, and people-centred leadership.
“Your emergence signals the beginning of a new era anchored on unity, progressive ideals, and impactful representation,” he added.
Kayode further commended the new chairman’s track record within the student movement, expressing optimism that his leadership would strengthen institutional structures and deliver tangible outcomes for students.
He also assured the new leadership of regional backing, stressing the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges facing students.
“We commend your courage, resilience, and commitment to the ideals of student unionism, and we are confident that your tenure will usher in remarkable strides in strengthening the JCC structure and advancing the welfare of students across the state.
“As you assume this noble responsibility, be assured of the unwavering support, solidarity, and cooperation of NANS Southwest as we work together to deepen advocacy, promote unity, and elevate the voice of Nigerian students,” Kayode stated.
