Dare Babalola
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has chosen Akinteye Babatunde of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Ondo State, as its new national president following the conclusion of its 2026 national convention held in Abuja.
The election, which took place at the Old Parade Ground in the Federal Capital Territory, brought together delegates from across the country and marked the end of the tenure of the outgoing president, Olushola Oladoja.
Babatunde, who previously served as the Senate President of the student body, secured the top position after a closely contested race involving five aspirants.
The convention was held under heavy security presence, with personnel from the Nigeria Police Force and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) deployed to ensure order throughout the exercise. Participants described the process as largely peaceful and orderly, with no recorded incidents of violence or disruption.
In his acceptance remarks shortly after being declared winner on Monday, Babatunde expressed appreciation to delegates for their support, describing his election as a collective decision by Nigerian students.
He said the outcome reflected unity within the association and praised the conduct of the electoral process.
He also noted that the convention stood out for its calm atmosphere, stressing that disagreements and disruptions were absent during the exercise.
According to him, the peaceful conduct of the election demonstrated the strength and cohesion of the student body, adding that the new leadership would work to sustain that unity.
Babatunde further promised that his administration would build on the achievements of the outgoing leadership while prioritising student welfare and strengthening engagement across campuses nationwide.
Outgoing president, Oladoja, described the election as a major highlight of his administration, expressing satisfaction with how the process was conducted from start to finish.
He said he was particularly pleased that the transition produced a candidate he personally believed was capable of leading the association effectively.
He wished the incoming leadership success, praying for guidance and strength to carry out the responsibilities of office.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Independent Convention Planning Committee, Omotayo Samuel, disclosed during the accreditation process that more than 300 delegates took part in the convention.
He explained that participants included student union government leaders, senate presidents, and representatives from various tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
Samuel assured stakeholders that adequate arrangements were made to guarantee a credible and transparent electoral process.
The presidential contest featured Babatunde Akinteye Afeez of OAUSTECH, Aminu Haruna Maipampo of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Awoyinpa Opeoluwa Elijah of the Federal University of Technology Akure, Olumide Odumosu Josiah of Olabisi Onabanjo University, and Opaleye Samuel Oladutun of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
