JUST IN: NANS elects Ondo varsity student as new president

The National Association of Nigerian Students has chosen Akinteye Babatunde from Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology as its new national president after the successful conclusion of the association's 2026 national convention, which took place at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja.

Akinteye, who previously served as the NANS Senate President, won the election in a closely contested race that featured five presidential candidates. He officially takes over from the outgoing NANS President, Olushola Oladoja, who has completed his term leading the association.

The convention was held under strict security measures, with police officers and operatives from the Department of State Services present, and participants described it as one of the most peaceful events in the association's history.

Shortly after his election on Monday, the newly elected NANS President expressed his gratitude to the delegates and committed to upholding the achievements of the previous administration while fostering unity among Nigerian students.

"The leadership of NANS has successfully conducted our election, and the new leadership has emerged. I thank all the delegates for electing me, a student of OAUSTECH, as the new president of NANS," Akinteye stated.

He praised the peaceful environment during the convention, highlighting that there were no crises, violence, or disputes throughout the event.

"In the history of NANS, this is one of the best conventions we have experienced. There was no crisis, no gunfire, no fighting. All the candidates who ran against me have already congratulated me. This demonstrates that NANS is united, and we will continue to collaborate to maintain the association as one," he added.

Akinteye also assured Nigerian students that his administration would carry on the positive initiatives of the outgoing leadership and reposition the association for a more significant impact across campuses nationwide.

"Our activities will soon be felt across campuses, and the country will recognize that NANS is active and dedicated to students' welfare," he concluded.

In his statements, outgoing President Olushola Oladoja characterized the successful execution of the election as one of the most joyful moments of his administration.

"I express my gratitude to God Almighty for granting me the chance to oversee a free and fair election in the history of NANS. I am pleased that the individual who emerged victorious is someone I have great faith in and trust regarding their capabilities," Oladoja remarked.

He conveyed his confidence in the new president's potential to exceed his accomplishments during his term.

"I wish him success and pray that God bestows upon him wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and strength to lead NANS effectively," he further stated.

Previously, the Chairman of the Independent Convention Planning Committee, Omotayo Samuel, revealed during the accreditation process on Sunday evening at Kapital Club, Asokoro, that more than 300 delegates took part in the convention.

He noted that the delegates comprised Student Union Government presidents, Senate presidents, and various student leaders from higher education institutions nationwide.

Oladele reassured stakeholders that the committee had implemented sufficient measures to guarantee a free, fair, and credible electoral process.

The presidential election included candidates such as Akinteye Babatunde Afeez from OAUSTECH, Aminu Haruna Maipampo from the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Awoyinpa Opeoluwa Elijah from the Federal University of Technology Akure, Olumide Odumosu Josiah from Olabisi Onabanjo University, and Opaleye Samuel Oladutun from the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta.