The management of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has assured the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) that measures are being carefully put in place to ensure the reinstatement of the students union at the University....Read The Full Story Here ▶
Recall that the apex body of students in Nigeria and the Diaspora had on June 11, 2024 issued a 14-day ultimatum on the management of the institution to reinstate students unionism or risk picketing.
At the parley held with NANS team led by Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, the Clerk of the Senate,
National Secretariat at the Senate Building of the institution, the Vice-Chancellor of the 62-year-old university, Professor Folasade Ogunsola reassured all stakeholders, particularly the esteemed leadership of NANS that steps are being taken towards reinstating students unionism at the university.
She stated that the management recognizes the importance of students governance in fostering a vibrant academic environment and ensuring the welfare of the students.
The VC affirmed her belief that a functional and responsible Students’ Union is essential for promoting students welfare, enhancing campus life, and facilitating constructive engagement between students and the university administration just as she expressed the commitment of the management of the University to work diligently at resolving outstanding issues and create an enabling environment for the SUG to operate effectively.
She emphasised that her mission is to address the issue with the seriousness it deserves, saying the reinstatement of the SUG is a testament to her commitment to students welfare and campus democracy.
The VC further made it clear that reinstating the SUG is not merely about lifting the suspension but about creating an environment where the SUG can thrive and fulfill its mandate effectively, saying that structural and operational issues that led to the suspension in the first place will be reviewed such as a review of the SUG’s constitution, enhancement of its governance framework, and the provision of necessary resources and support for its activities.
In his response, Comrade Uthman said the absence of the SUG has created a notable gap between the university authority and the students of the institution.
Comrade Uthman commended the resolve and commitment expressed by the Vice-Chancellor to bridge the gap between the students and the administration and ensuring that issues affecting students are addressed promptly and effectively.
