Why There Is No Faction in NANS: Understanding the Unity of Nigeria’s Student Body —By Michael Oyewole

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is the apex body representing students’ interests across tertiary institutions in Nigeria. In more specific terms, NANS is a pivotal organisation representing the collective voice of Nigerian students both within the country and in the diaspora. Over the years, there have been media reports and public speculations about factions within NANS, particularly during leadership transitions. However, a closer examination of the organization’s structure, constitution, and recent developments reveals that there is, in fact, no legitimate faction in NANS, only challenges of perception and misinformation. Some of these are

The constitution of the apex Students’ body is armed with enough clarity on how to attain electoral legitimacy. It is a near perfect body of constitutional framework. The NANS constitution provides a clear framework for electing national leaders through its annual convention. Senators (Presidents of Students Union Government) from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria converge to elect a president and other executive members. While these elections are often competitive and passionately contested, the outcomes are binding on all member institutions. The presence of multiple aspirants or pre-convention camps does not equate to factionalism, it is part of the democratic process. More so, The organization operates under a clear set of rules and guidelines that govern elections, leadership transitions, and dispute resolution. The NANS constitution ensures that leadership positions, including the presidency, are filled through transparent and democratic processes, with each president serving a one-year tenure. This structured approach minimizes disputes over legitimacy, as seen in the case of Comrade Olushola Ladoja, who was elected through a widely recognized democratic process.

For the records, the election that brought in Comrade Olushola Lajoda as the National President of NANS has been adjudged by credible media platforms, observers, student community, and members of the public as the most transparent and credible election ever in the most recent history of NANS. No single crisis was witnessed throughout the whole process. The election that produced Comrade Olushola
Oladoja was a complete deviation from the past where processes are sometimes marred by violence and mischaracterization. It was a mandate freely conferred on him based on merit to lead over 40.1 million Nigerian students all over the world.

Once an elective convention concludes and results are ratified, the new leadership is recognized by member unions, stakeholders, and relevant government bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Education. Any post-convention disagreements or dissenting voices do not carry constitutional weight and typically fade as the new administration begins to run its mandate, legitimately conferred on him. For the avoidance of doubt and to inform unsuspecting members of the public, NANS is one, under the leadership of Olushola Oladoja as its global President.

Historically, NANS exhibits a shared vision that discourages the formation of factions, as members prioritize the organization’s broader goals over individual agendas. While disagreements are inevitable in any large organization, NANS has demonstrated an ability to resolve internal conflicts without allowing them to escalate. This proactive approach to conflict resolution ensures that disputes are addressed internally, preventing the organization from splintering. In any democratic setting, divergent opinions are natural and healthy. Within NANS, students from different regions, institutions, and ideological backgrounds may express disagreement on issues of policy, representation, or tactics. However, such disagreements should not be mistaken for formal schisms or factions. Debate is a hallmark of student activism, not a sign of organizational breakdown.

It is important to distinguish between legitimate organizational processes and the actions of impostors. At times, individuals or groups, often with no electoral mandate, have paraded themselves as NANS leaders. These are not factions but opportunistic attempts to hijack the name and influence of NANS for personal or political gain. The student body at large does not recognize such individuals, and their activities rarely gain traction beyond social media or fringe platforms. Leaders like Ladoja, who won elections through transparent processes, enjoy widespread support from student union presidents and campus leaders across Nigeria. This broad acceptance discourages dissenting groups from gaining traction. Additionally, NANS’ leadership maintains open communication with its members, addressing concerns promptly and inclusively.

Unfortunately, external observers, especially the media, sometimes misrepresent these disagreements, giving the false impression of factionalism. The spread of misinformation on social media further compounds this, often fueled by individuals who lost in conventions and seek relevance by claiming parallel leadership. A particular media outlet is notorious for fueling misrepresentation of the organization and tactically promulgating false narratives to deceive unsuspecting members of the public. This time, the unity of all the structures in NANS and the overwhelming support the current National President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, enjoys has nipped their destructive agendas in the bud.

With Comrade Olushola Oladoja at the helms of affairs of NANS, NANS is now driven by a shared mission to protect the rights and welfare of Nigerian students while promoting academic excellence and national development. This unifying objective transcends personal or regional interests, fostering a sense of collective purpose among members.

NANS’ history of overcoming challenges has instilled a culture of resilience that discourages factionalism. From its formation in 1956 to its survival of Government bans during the 1978 protests, NANS has faced significant obstacles yet remained intact. This resilience is rooted in the organization’s ability to adapt and unify in the face of adversity. Past leaders and members have consistently worked to preserve NANS as a single entity, passing down a tradition of unity that continues to guide the organization. This historical consciousness reinforces the importance of maintaining a united front, even during periods of internal tension.

NANS, under the leadership of Comrade Olushola Oladoja, remains one of the most vibrant and resilient student movements in Africa. Its strength lies in its diversity, grassroots support, and institutional legitimacy. While political competition and debate are inherent in its structure, these do not constitute factionalism. The idea sold by the usual media suspects that there is a faction in NANS is largely a myth; an exaggerated interpretation of normal democratic activity. With Olushola Oladoja, the association continues to stand united in its mission to protect students’ interests, advocate for quality education, and serve as a voice for the youth of Nigeria.

In an era where misinformation spreads fast, students, media practitioners, and the general public must differentiate between dissent and division, and recognize that NANS, though not perfect, is not divided. We should not allow ourselves not be swayed by cunningly crafted emotional manipulation by checking sensational claims, seeking out primary sources, cross referencing every detail for legitimacy, and never to give room for bad actors to denigrate legitimacy. The onus rests on our shoulders to protect ourselves and the sanctity of society from anyone or a group of people who intentionally misinterpret events and promulgate totally untrue narratives for either selfish gains or personal aggrandizement. For emphasis, NANS is one, and comrade Olushola Oladoja is the duly elected legitimate National President. Go and verify!

Michael Oyewole is the Chief Press Secretary to the National President of NANS