By Abubakar Sadiq Mohd, Zaria Youth especially students have been tasked to revitalize prowess and reclaim their influential ro...
By Abubakar Sadiq Mohd, Zaria
Youth especially students have been tasked to revitalize prowess and reclaim their influential role in shaping the socio-political landscape of Nigeria polity.
Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, former Spokesman, Northern Elders Forum gave the task at the inauguration of
officials of the National Association of Zazzau Students (NAZAS) held in Zaria.
He said In the past, student unions served as powerful voices for the voiceless, fearlessly advocating for better educational infrastructure, improved welfare schemes, and greater accountability from governing bodies.
According to him, students unions were not merely reactive entities; they proactively shaped the national discourse, influence policy agendas and hold power accountable.
He stated that the dynamism was evident in their ability to unite students from diverse backgrounds under a common banner of collective action, demonstrating a remarkable capacity for leadership and strategic thinking.
Suleiman noted that the impact was undeniable; as the unions were instrumental to bringing about significant changes that benefitted not only students but the entire society and country as a whole.
He however lamented that the once vibrant and influential student unions have, to a considerable extent, lost their dynamism and impact due to increased influence of political patronage and partisan politics that fragmented the unity of the unions and weaken their collective bargaining power.
Suleiman said for youth to achieve desired goal, they must have a renewed commitment to advocacy, a willingness to challenge the status quo while working in collaboration with other student organizations, civil society groups, and government agencies.
"They must prioritize evidence-based advocacy, relying on data and research to strengthen their arguments and influence policy debates.
"Crucially, they must demonstrate ethical leadership, acting with integrity and transparency in all their dealings." He enjoined.
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