(DDM) – The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lagos State chapter, has awarded scholarships to five undergraduate students from tertiary institutions in the state as part of efforts to promote academic excellence and encourage student development.
The scholarship presentation took place in Lagos during a student-focused programme organised by the NANS Lagos leadership.
The beneficiaries were selected from different higher institutions across the state based on academic performance and demonstrated commitment to positive student engagement.
NANS Lagos officials said the initiative was designed to support outstanding students facing economic challenges amid rising education costs.
They explained that the scholarship scheme reflects the association’s broader responsibility to protect student welfare beyond protests and advocacy.
According to the NANS Lagos leadership, education remains the most powerful tool for youth empowerment and national development.
They noted that many brilliant Nigerian students struggle to complete their studies due to financial hardship.
The association said interventions such as scholarships help reduce dropout rates and motivate students to remain focused on their academic goals.
Speaking at the event, NANS Lagos executives emphasized that the awards were not politically motivated.
They described the programme as a genuine student-centered intervention aimed at rewarding excellence.
The leadership urged other student bodies, alumni associations, and corporate organisations to invest more in student support initiatives.
They argued that government efforts alone are insufficient to address the financial challenges confronting Nigerian students.
NANS Lagos stressed that student unions must go beyond activism to practical welfare-driven actions.
They said the scholarship programme would be sustained and expanded in future editions.
According to the organisers, the long-term goal is to institutionalise the scheme across all campuses in Lagos State.
The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to NANS Lagos for the gesture.
Some of the students described the scholarship as timely relief amid economic pressures affecting tuition, accommodation, and learning materials.
One of the awardees said the support would allow him to focus more on academics without constant financial anxiety.
Another beneficiary noted that the scholarship restored her confidence and sense of belonging within the student community.
Parents and guardians who attended the event praised the initiative.
They commended NANS Lagos for prioritising education and student welfare.
Observers at the event said the programme helped improve the public perception of student unionism.
They noted that NANS is often associated mainly with protests and confrontations with authorities.
However, initiatives like scholarships demonstrate a more constructive dimension of student leadership.
Education stakeholders have repeatedly called for stronger student-focused interventions in Nigeria.
Rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and unstable power supply have worsened the cost of living for students.
Many students now combine academics with menial jobs to survive.
This, analysts say, often affects academic performance and mental health.
The NANS Lagos scholarship initiative comes at a time when student funding remains a major concern nationwide.
Although some state governments and institutions offer bursaries, coverage remains limited.
Private sector involvement in student funding is also relatively low compared to global standards.
NANS Lagos said it would continue engaging partners to sustain the programme.
The association called on alumni, philanthropists, and education-focused NGOs to collaborate on future editions.
They also encouraged beneficiaries to become ambassadors of academic excellence and responsible leadership.
NANS stressed that scholarship recipients should mentor younger students and contribute positively to campus life.
The leadership reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful advocacy and constructive engagement with authorities.
They said empowering students intellectually and financially strengthens the voice of Nigerian students.
The event ended with a renewed pledge by NANS Lagos to prioritise welfare-driven programmes.
Participants described the atmosphere as inspiring and forward-looking.
Analysts believe initiatives like this could redefine student unionism in Nigeria.
They argue that welfare-based leadership builds trust between students and their representatives.
As economic challenges persist, such interventions may become increasingly vital.
The NANS Lagos scholarship award highlights the potential of student organisations to drive positive change.
It also underscores the importance of collective responsibility in supporting education.
Many students hope the initiative will inspire similar actions across other states.
For now, the five beneficiaries stand as symbols of encouragement and hope within the Lagos student community.
