NANS convention: Seyi Tinubu Not Backing Any Aspirant – Opaleye

A presidential aspirant for the National Association of Nigerian Students, Comrade Dotun Opaleye, has dismissed claims that the son of President Bola Tinubu is backing any candidate in the forthcoming convention, saying he is unaware of such an arrangement. Opaleye, who made the clarification during his official declaration at the NUJ Secretariat, Iwe Iroyin, Abeokuta, […]

A presidential aspirant for the National Association of Nigerian Students, Comrade Dotun Opaleye, has dismissed claims that the son of President Bola Tinubu is backing any candidate in the forthcoming convention, saying he is unaware of such an arrangement.

Opaleye, who made the clarification during his official declaration at the NUJ Secretariat, Iwe Iroyin, Abeokuta, Ogun State, said his ambition is driven by his track record and engagement with stakeholders across the student body.

The presidential aspirant gave his position while responding questions from journalists from during the briefing.

Though Zamora, as fondly called said, he wouldn’t claim ignorance of the loud rumor in the association and mong students but maintained that, “I’m not aware that Tinubu’s son is backing anyone. I am hearing that for the first time. But my intentions are clear to stakeholders, including the first son of Nigeria, Mr Seyi Tinubu.”

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) student maintained that his credibility within the NANS structure would give him an edge in the race.

“My antecedents are not hidden to any stakeholder in NANS, and I know that in an open ballot system, we are coasting home to victory. Our state is the most ideological, and we have never done it before, but we have proven enough capacity, so be rest assured, “ he added.

Beyond the politics of the convention, Opaleye highlighted challenges facing Nigerian students, particularly the rising cost of education and limited access to basic welfare.

He lamented that many students continue to struggle under difficult conditions, including poor infrastructure, insecurity, and increasing school fees.

He said his decision to run for office was rooted in a desire to reposition NANS as a strong advocacy body.

He stressed that, “For too long, the Nigerian student has endured neglect, broken promises, and policies made without our input. We have faced inadequate infrastructure, rising school fees, insecurity on campuses, and an education system that does not reflect the future we deserve.

“That is why I am stepping forward. Our struggle is not for personal aggrandizement but for collective liberation. Under my leadership, NANS will return to its roots as a fearless, united, and purposeful body that defends the rights and welfare of every Nigerian student.”

The aspirant also called for reforms in student financing, particularly the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), urging the government to convert loans into grants.

He argued that while free education may not be immediately achievable, grants would ease the financial pressure on students and make higher education more accessible.

Opaleye further pledged to prioritise student welfare, including improved hostel conditions and access to healthcare on campuses.

He said “We will partner with the Nigerian government and stakeholders to push for the conversion of NELFUND from a loan to a grant. The burden of an education loan will be too stifling for young graduates who are not assured of finding their feet in Nigeria’s labour market.

“We will fight for affordable education, improved hostel conditions, and accessible healthcare on all campuses.”