Koko Maxwella 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, warning that worsening violence continues to threaten students and learning environments nationwide.
In a statement issued on Friday, NANS Senate President Usman Nagwaza urged the President to strengthen support for the Ministry of Defence and empower the armed forces to intensify operations against criminal groups.
Nagwaza says persistent insecurity disrupts academic activities and endangers students across campuses and host communities. “NANS do not represent barbarism or criminality,” he says. “Our concern is Nigeria, especially students who are directly affected by insecurity.”
The student body formally appeals for emergency measures to address kidnappings, armed attacks and other violent crimes impacting educational institutions and communities. “We call on the President to declare a state of emergency on insecurity and further empower the armed forces to intensify operations against criminal elements,” Nagwaza adds.
NANS also urges Nigerians to support security agencies and reject divisive rhetoric, stressing that national unity is critical at a time of heightened security challenges.
The association cautions against what it describes as “politics of character assassination,” arguing that such actions weaken collective efforts to restore peace.
It specifically defends the Ministry of Defence, saying criticism targeting Defence Minister Bello Matawalle undermines coordinated security responses.
NANS maintains that restoring safety is essential for protecting lives, sustaining education and securing Nigeria’s future.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
