NANS President Expresses Condolences, Calls for Action on Maiduguri Floods
The President of the Senate of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Afeez Akinteye, has expressed his deepest condolences to the victims of the recent floods that ravaged several parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Akinteye extended heartfelt sympathies on behalf of the association to the students and staff of the Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture in Maiduguri, who were severely impacted by the floods, which displaced many residents of the state.
“The disruption of lives, the destruction of homes, and the forced displacement of thousands within the community are tragic and deeply unsettling, especially for students striving to achieve their academic goals,” Akinteye said.
The NANS leader emphasized the severe impact of the floods on the educational aspirations of many young people, noting, “Education is a fundamental pillar of our society, and any event that threatens the ability of students to learn and thrive must be addressed with urgency and compassion. Our thoughts are with all those who have been displaced, and we express our deepest sympathies to the students and their families during this difficult time.”
NANS called on the Federal Government to take immediate action through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to mobilize resources and deploy necessary assistance to the affected communities in Maiduguri. The association specifically urged the government to prioritize support for the displaced students of Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture to ensure their safety and the continuity of their education.
The student body advocated for the provision of temporary shelters, food, medical care, and psychosocial support for those affected, stressing the need for a comprehensive plan that not only addresses immediate needs but also guarantees the safe return of displaced students to their academic pursuits as soon as possible.
“We implore the Federal Government to create a comprehensive plan that ensures displaced students are not left behind due to circumstances beyond their control. Efforts should be made to create alternative learning environments where students can continue their education, even as the crisis is being managed,” Akinteye added.
NANS further called on the Borno State Government and other relevant authorities to collaborate with NEMA and humanitarian organizations to facilitate the delivery of aid and relief materials to all those affected, particularly students. The association emphasized the need for a coordinated effort to restore normalcy and mitigate the impact of the crisis on students and the broader community.
