NANS SOUTH-WEST COORDINATOR URGES STUDENTS TO SPEAK FOR JUSTICE AT UNILESA STUDENTS' WEEK FINALE

The South-West Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, has called on Nigerian students to become active participants in nation-building by speaking up against injustice and promoting good governance.

He made the call during the grand finale of the 2026 Students' Week Celebration of the University of Ilesa tagged "Evening with the Vice Chancellor" with the theme "Unleashing Creativity, Celebrating Excellence."

Comrade Adeyemo expressed concern over the growing insecurity across the country, describing students and young people as among the most vulnerable groups affected by the challenge.

"The responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property. Governments at all levels must rise to this constitutional responsibility and ensure the safety of citizens," he stated.

He reminded students that the University experience should extend beyond the acquisition of academic certificates, stressing that character development remains an essential component of higher education.

"The University is not a place to earn paper qualifications alone. It is a place to build character, develop values and prepare for leadership," he emphasized.

The student leader further encouraged undergraduates to actively engage in democratic processes and make informed choices when electing leaders at different levels.

According to him, meaningful societal change can only occur when young people become active stakeholders in governance rather than passive observers.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Prof. Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, encouraged students to remain committed to excellence and personal development while taking advantage of opportunities provided by the institution.

The Osun State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Sunday Adedipo Eluwole, also lauded the progress recorded by the University and reaffirmed the state's commitment to supporting its development into a world-class institution.

Adding her voice, the Mother of the Day, Mrs. Adebisi Oluwatoyin Fadeyibi, advised students against cutting corners in their academic and personal pursuits, warning that shortcuts often produce undesirable consequences.

The event ended on a joyous note with entertainment, cultural displays and the crowning of a new Miss UNILESA, an occasion that drew cheers and applause from students and guests alike.