David Olatunji
The phrase “Great Nigerian Students” refers to students across all levels of education in Nigeria, from primary to tertiary institutions. This appellation holds a rich history rooted in the activism and unity of Nigerian students in the face of social and educational challenges.
The roots of Nigerian student activism trace back to the West African Students Union (WASU), the first student movement in West Africa, established in 1924 in London, England. WASU inspired the formation of the National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS) in 1956, marking a pivotal moment in the history of Nigerian student activism. Over the years, student movements became strongholds of resistance against social injustices, colonialism, and later, military oppression in Nigeria.
The National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS), founded in 1956, embodied nationalism and a formidable spirit of activism, often viewed as a threat by the government. In April 1978, NUNS was banned by the Federal Military Government under General Olusegun Obasanjo. Two years later, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) emerged to fill the void left by NUNS. NANS inherited NUNS’s tradition of activism, advocating for students’ rights, educational interests, and welfare.
In the 1990s, NANS led numerous protests against tuition increases and policies affecting students, marking a period of high resistance and courage. However, some argue that today’s student movements lack the same vigor.
Ayodele Aduwo, a 300-level history student at the University of Ibadan and a vocal activist against recent fee hikes, spoke to Harbinger about the current state of student unionism across Nigerian campuses. “There has never been a golden era. Even in the colonial and military years, student movements faced significant challenges. Student unionism in 2024 is a far cry from what it once was,” Aduwo remarked.
He further highlighted the lack of historical awareness among many student leaders. “Many student leaders lack the knowledge of union history and civic orientation. Students also often choose leaders without enough awareness. Our institutions have declined in quality and are now shadows of their former selves,” he added.
Aduwo also addressed the shifting social dynamics affecting today’s student movement. “Our social structures have moved away from humanistic values; socialization has shifted towards mere adaptation. Many students grow up in environments where dissent is discouraged, and our educational system does not foster critical citizenship. Nigerian students are not prepared to challenge anti-student policies,” he observed.
Reflecting on the support student movements received in the 1990s, Aduwo noted that organizations like the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) often backed student protests, strengthening the movement. However, he pointed out that today, ASUU has its battles to fight. “ASUU protects the interests of its members and, by extension, students. But with the challenges ASUU faces, we cannot expect them to be fully aligned with us,” he said.
Aduwo believes that for student activism to thrive again, Nigerian students must reignite their civic consciousness. “Nigerian students need to invest in civic knowledge. Without it, we will continue to fall victim to neoliberal policies. We need to fix our socialization and address the gaps left by past leaders who didn’t set strong examples,” he concluded.
He called for historical awareness and responsibility among students. “Our past leaders must reconnect with us, as we’ve lost touch with crucial aspects of our history. Nigerian students need to step up, take responsibility, and be ready to tackle campus issues using organized approaches and resistance,” Aduwo advised.
Aduwo’s insights reflect both a call for rejuvenation in Nigerian student activism and a roadmap for fostering a more informed, resilient generation.
