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By Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza

The history of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is, in many respects, the history of principled student activism in Nigeria. There was a time when NANS stood as a formidable ideological force, feared by oppressive governments, respected by the masses, and admired by progressive movements across Africa. It was an era when student leaders were driven not by personal gain, political patronage, or social media popularity, but by conviction, courage, and a deep commitment to justice.

The NANS of old was not merely an association; it was a movement. Its leaders understood the social, economic, and political realities of Nigeria and positioned themselves firmly on the side of the oppressed. They challenged military dictatorships, resisted anti-people policies, defended academic freedom, and championed the welfare of students and ordinary Nigerians. Their struggles were guided by a clear ideological orientation rooted in social justice, accountability, democracy, and the collective good.

Today, however, many observers are compelled to ask a painful question: what happened to NANS?

The answer may lie in one critical deficiency that has plagued the organization for decades; the erosion of ideological clarity. Since the departure of the generation of student leaders who viewed activism as a noble responsibility, NANS appears to have drifted into an era of uncertainty, where principles have increasingly given way to opportunism.

Without a coherent ideological foundation, organizations inevitably lose direction. This appears to be the challenge confronting contemporary NANS. Rather than serving as a fearless voice for students, the organization often finds itself trapped in activities that diminish its credibility and undermine its historical significance.

One of the most troubling manifestations of this decline is the growing tendency of some student leaders to commercialize recognition and honours. It has become commonplace to witness student organizations moving from one politically exposed individual to another, hawking awards and citations in exchange for patronage, sponsorship, or financial support. Such practices not only cheapen the integrity of the organization but also erode public confidence in student leadership.

The reality is simple: no society takes seriously an organization that appears more interested in seeking favours from the powerful than in speaking truth to power. Student leaders cannot simultaneously function as watchdogs of society and as merchants of recognition. The contradiction is too glaring.

Unfortunately, whenever these concerns are raised, the tendency is often to attack the messenger rather than engage with the substance of the criticism. Yet, the real enemy is not the individual pointing out the shortcomings. The real enemy may be the unwillingness to confront uncomfortable truths and undertake the difficult task of self-examination.

NANS must therefore resist the temptation of defensiveness and instead embark on sincere introspection. It must ask itself difficult questions. Why has its influence diminished? Why do many students no longer see it as a genuine vehicle for their aspirations? Why has its voice become less impactful on critical national issues affecting education, governance, and social development?

The pathway to renewal is neither mysterious nor impossible. NANS must consciously rebuild its ideological foundation. It must rediscover the political consciousness that once made it a respected institution. Student leadership must once again be grounded in ideas, principles, intellectual engagement, and service rather than personal ambition.

Beyond internal reforms, NANS must forge strategic alliances with progressive and democratic organizations committed to educational advancement, social justice, good governance, human rights, and popular struggles. Throughout history, successful student movements have never operated in isolation. They have collaborated with labour unions, civil society organizations, professional bodies, and democratic movements to advance common causes.

Such partnerships would not compromise the independence of NANS; rather, they would strengthen its capacity to advocate effectively for affordable education, improved learning conditions, youth empowerment, and national development.

Nigeria today faces enormous challenges: declining educational standards, rising tuition costs, graduate unemployment, insecurity, poverty, and governance deficits. These are issues that demand a vibrant, principled, and intellectually grounded student movement. The country needs a NANS that can mobilize ideas, not merely crowds; influence policy, not merely issue statements; and inspire students, not merely seek patronage.

The legacy of the old NANS remains a powerful reminder of what is possible when student leadership is anchored on principle. The task before the present generation is to decide whether it wishes to preserve that legacy or merely exist in its shadow.

History has already shown what NANS can become at its best. The challenge now is whether today’s leadership possesses the courage, discipline, and ideological conviction to reclaim that noble heritage.

Until then, the distinction between the NANS of old and the NANS of today will remain a painful commentary on how far an institution can drift when it loses sight of its founding ideals.

● Author was former Students Union Secretary General & former NANS Secretary General.