NAUS Opposes Planned October 1 Protest

The National Association of University Students (NAUS) has declared its opposition to the planned nationwide protest set for October 1. The student body has instead called on the Federal Government to provide 3,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) powered buses to universities across the country to alleviate the financial strain caused by fuel subsidy removal on students.

During a press conference held in Abuja, NAUS National President, Comrade Josiah Peter, emphasized the need for immediate government intervention, urging the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to ensure uniform pricing of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) across all filling stations. He also called for a proactive effort to revive the country's refineries.

Peter commended President Bola Tinubu's commitment to improving the education sector, notably the introduction of a student loan scheme. However, he stressed that students are grappling with the economic effects of fuel price hikes, foreign exchange instability, and rising food prices.

"NAUS recognizes the hardships caused by recent economic challenges and urges the government to distribute 3,000 CNG-powered buses to universities to ease the burden on students," Peter said.

He further appealed to companies like Dangote to contribute to building more refineries, which he believes would reduce petroleum product prices and ease the strain on the Nigerian populace.

The NAUS President also urged students to avoid participating in the planned protest, advocating instead for dialogue with government authorities to address their concerns. He assured that NAUS would resort to protests only if other means of negotiation failed.

Finally, a vote of confidence was passed by NAUS on Sunday Asefon, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on student engagement.