The umbrella body of students of Nigerian origin at home and in the Diaspora has sent warm greetings and New Year messages to its members across the globe.

In a new year message to all students, Senator Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, Clerk of the Senate, NANS National Secretariat, in a new year message assured members of the association that the leadership of NANS would continue to serve and protect the interests of students of Nigerian everywhere and sustain its advocacy for good welfare, learning infrastructure and general wellbeing of students.

Comrade Uthman, in the message, said that students, as the heartbeat of the nation’s future, must continue to lead the charge for transformation.

The statement tagged: “A New Year Message To All Nigerian Students At Home And In Diaspora” read: “Ever-Dogged Nigerian Students, with great joy and gratitude to God Almighty that the Senate Secretariat of the prestigious National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) under the leadership of Senator Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, extends our warmest heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all Nigerian students as we embrace the dawn of the year 2025.

“As the curtain closes on 2024, we reflect on a year that tested our resolve, unity, and commitment to the cause of students’ welfare and national development. The challenges we faced were not insurmountable, and together, we overcame numerous obstacles, achieving milestones that reaffirmed our strength and determination as Nigerian Students.

“In our campuses across the nation and beyond, Nigerian students have remained the vanguards of innovation, advocacy, and excellence. Despite limited resources, we have continued to excel academically, creatively, and socially, contributing meaningfully to national and global conversations on critical issues. Nigerian students at home and in the diaspora are the torchbearers of hope and resilience, and for this, I salute your courage and determination.

“The new year, 2025, presents us with another opportunity to recalibrate our focus and strengthen our resolve to build a better future for ourselves, our communities, and our beloved nation. It is a time for us to renew our commitment to academic brilliance, social responsibility, and unwavering advocacy for better educational standards, improved infrastructures, and a conducive learning environment.”

Acknowledging that the tasks ahead are enormous, NANS urged Nigerian students to double efforts in engaging institutions, government, and stakeholders to ensure that the voices of students are not just heard but respected.

The association applauded the contributions of its counterpart in the Diaspora to elevating the image of Nigeria on the global stage, saying such achievements and representation are a source of pride to all.

“In the same vein, we call on you to stay connected with the struggles and aspirations of your fellow Nigerian students back home. Together, irrespective of distance, we form a formidable force for progress and change.

“I also use this medium to encourage every Nigerian student to cultivate a spirit of collaboration, tolerance, and inclusivity. Our diversity is our strength, and through unity, we will overcome every challenge and emerge victorious. Let us uphold the values of hard work, discipline and patriotism as we journey through the year 2025.

“On behalf of the Senate Secretariat of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), I reaffirm our commitment to your welfare, growth and success. The national leadership of NANS will continue to prioritize the needs and aspirations of all Nigerian students, advocate for their rights, and ensure their voices resonate powerfully across every platform.

“As we celebrate the arrival of 2025, may it be a year filled with breakthroughs, victories, and fulfilment for every Nigerian student. May we experience unprecedented academic success, professional growth, and personal development. Above all, may we contribute positively to our nation’s progress and remain symbols of hope and change,” the statement added.