By RismadarVoice Media, December 19, 2025
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, citing the growing threats posed by criminal activities across the country, particularly to students, educational institutions.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Senate President, Usman Nagwaza, NANS urged the President to provide maximum support to the Ministry of Defence by further empowering the armed forces to intensify operations against criminal elements terrorising Nigerians.
According to the Association, insecurity remains a major concern for students nationwide, stressing that NANS stands firmly against criminality and violence.
It noted that the call for emergency measures was driven by the need to safeguard lives, ensure uninterrupted academic activities, restore public confidence in national security.
“NANS does not represent barbarism or criminality. Our concern is Nigeria, especially students, who are directly affected by insecurity,” the statement read.
The student body also appealed to Nigerians to support the Ministry of Defence, reject what it described as the politics of character assassination, warning that such actions weaken collective efforts to restore peace and stability.
Reacting to allegations linking the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to banditry, NANS described the claims as baseless, politically motivated, and unfair, particularly at a time when national unity is required to confront security challenges.
NANS noted that the Federal Government has continued to intensify efforts towards tackling insecurity by mobilizing military, security assets across the country.
It referenced recent steps by the Tinubu administration, including the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence, with a mandate to drive a more coordinated national security response.
The Association also acknowledged government efforts to strengthen military capacity through the refurbishment of over 100 armoured fighting vehicles and plans to acquire additional modern equipment, including drones, mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness.
NANS expressed hope that decisive action, sustained support for the armed forces would lead to improved security, a safer environment for all Nigerians.
