Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerian student leaders to engage the government honestly when they disagree with its policies, stressing the importance of constructive criticism in governance.
Shettima made the call on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, when he received a delegation of national student leaders at the State House in Abuja.
According to a report carried by Reuters Connect, the Vice President said a government that hears only praise risks missing important information needed to improve its decisions and serve citizens effectively.
His remarks highlighted the role young Nigerians can play in national development through participation in policy discussions, raising concerns and offering alternative perspectives on government programmes.
During the meeting, Shettima also discussed the administration’s interventions in the education sector, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education.
He also referred to the government’s attention to the welfare of academic staff, describing education-related interventions as part of efforts to support students and keep them in school.
The meeting came as political parties and interest groups continued preparations for the 2027 general elections, with student organisations becoming increasingly involved in national political discussions.
Akinteye Afeez, president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), told the Vice President that the organisation planned to mobilise student support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Afeez said NANS had established a National Election Mobilisation Committee with a target of mobilising 10 million votes across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
He also expressed support for the student loan programme, arguing that financial difficulties had previously prevented some students from continuing their education.
The meeting brought together discussions about education policy, youth participation and electoral mobilisation. While the government emphasised its education initiatives, the student leadership also outlined its political position ahead of the next general election.
Shettima’s appeal for honest engagement underscored the importance of allowing students and other citizens to express disagreement with government policies as part of democratic participation.
Stanley C.
Stanley is a journalist with over five years experience covering politics, technology, business, sports and entertainment
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