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NANS Awards Rep. Akinlayo, Scores NELFUND 80%, Raises Concern Over AI Abuse in Schools
Cyril Ogar
The National Association of Nigerian Students has rated the Federal Government’s student loan initiative, Nigerian Education Loan Fund, at 80 per cent, even as it honoured Davidson Akinlayo Kolawole, a member of the House of Representatives, for his contributions to student welfare and development.
The rating and discussions around student-focused policies took place during the presentation of the 2026 NANS Excellence in Leadership, Service and Community Impact Award to the Ekiti North II federal lawmaker in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, NANS President, Olusola Oladoja, said the assessment of NELFUND was based on independent findings and feedback from students across the country, noting that millions have already benefited from the initiative.
“I will rate it 80 per cent because it still has lapses. But it is the first time Nigerian students are enjoying this level of support,” he said, adding that the scheme has significantly eased the burden of tuition, accommodation and upkeep.
He, however, raised concerns over delays and alleged mismanagement in some institutions, warning that erring officials could face sanctions, including petitions to anti-graft agencies.
Oladoja explained that Akinlayo’s selection for the award was based on independent research, which found him outstanding in youth and student-focused interventions, particularly within his constituency.
“In recognition of your exemplary leadership, selfless service to the nation, and remarkable contributions to community development and social impact,” he said, noting that 45 distinguished Nigerians were selected for the honour as part of activities marking NANS’ 45th anniversary.
Responding, Akinlayo expressed appreciation for the recognition, describing it as a motivation to do more at a critical time in Nigeria’s development.
“I am honoured to receive this award at a time when efforts are ongoing to make Nigeria great again,” he said.
The lawmaker highlighted key interventions, including bursary awards for students in his constituency and an additional N100,000 incentive for undergraduates with a CGPA of 3.5 and above to promote academic excellence. He also noted his role in supporting initiatives like NELFUND.
Amid growing reliance on technology in education, Akinlayo cautioned students against the misuse of artificial intelligence and digital tools, warning that overdependence could undermine academic excellence.
“AI should be used positively, not to replace thinking. You should be able to think for yourself,” he said.
He stressed that while digital tools are designed to improve productivity and learning outcomes, their misuse has led to declining academic standards, with some students relying on them for assignments and tests instead of engaging in independent study.
“With modern tools, students should perform better, but that is not always the case because they are being used the wrong way,” he added.
The lawmaker also raised concerns about the misuse of technology for fraudulent activities among some students, attributing it to poor moral upbringing and calling for stronger parental and educational guidance.
“We must revive proper home training, ensure discipline and accountability. That is how we can build better students and a better society,” he said.
NANS reaffirmed its support for the lawmaker, noting that his continued investment in student welfare and advocacy for impactful policies aligns with the association’s vision for sustainable development in Nigeria’s education sector.
Despite acknowledging operational gaps, the student body maintained that NELFUND remains one of the most impactful education policies in recent years, with the potential to transform access to higher education across the country.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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