The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest Zone, on Friday, appealed to the Federal Government to reverse its decision on the invalidation of degrees from Benin Republic and Togo, saying the action affects over 22,000 Nigerian students.
The Southwest Coordinator, John Alao, the Zonal Secretary General, Sanni Sulaimon Olamide, and Zonal Public Relations Officer, Peter Oluwadamilola Bamigboye, in a statement, said the student body was distressed to note that thousands of graduates who invested heavily in their education abroad have been rendered uncertain about their future.
“In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, who has declared that no Nigerian student will be forced to drop out of school, it is distressing to note that thousands of graduates who invested heavily in their education abroad have been rendered uncertain about their future.
“This decision not only undermines their academic achievements but also places them in a precarious position, potentially exposing them to anti-government elements eager to exploit their frustration.
“We acknowledge the government’s concern over the rise of substandard educational institutions and the need to curb academic racketeering.
“However, the outright ban on degrees from Benin Republic and Togo without due diligence, particularly when these certificates were once validated, is both unfair and discriminatory.
“We urge the government to reconsider this decision, as it risks driving talented young Nigerians into the arms of unrest, insurrections, and anti-government activities.
“Nigeria has one of the largest youth populations in the world, with over 70 per cent of our population under the age of 30.
“Many of these young people are struggling in a harsh economic environment, seeking any opportunity for education and betterment.
“By invalidating their degrees and leaving them without recourse, we risk deepening youth unemployment, crime, and insecurity in the country.”
They appealed to the government to do the right thing and protect the future of Nigerian students.
They said: “It is our belief that the government should implement a more targeted approach in addressing the concerns of academic fraud.
“Rather than a blanket ban, the authorities should review each institution on a case-by-case basis, collaborating with regional educational bodies to ensure standards are met.
“The government must also engage in dialogue with affected students, providing alternatives and solutions to mitigate the impact of this decision.
“We appeal for the Federal Government’s intervention to ensure that the rights and future of Nigerian students are protected.
“Let us not allow isolated cases to cast a shadow on the legitimate efforts of thousands of Nigerian students. We trust in the government’s wisdom to make a fair, just, and practical decision that will ensure peace and progress in our nation.”
