Minister Urges Students to Remain on Campus During Nationwide Protests

On Monday, Professor Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, urged students in Nigerian universities to remain on campus during the planned nationwide protests, citing concerns for their safety and well-being. The minister’s directive was conveyed through a letter addressed to Vice-Chancellors of universities by Chris Maiyaki, the acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission.

The planned protests, scheduled to take place from August 1 to 10, 2024, have gained significant traction on social media, with hashtags such as #EndBadGovernance, #TinubuMustGo, and #Revolution2024 trending widely. However, the presidency and police authorities have warned youths against participating in the protests, citing potential risks to their safety.

In his letter, the Minister of Education acknowledged the right to peaceful protest but expressed concerns about the potential consequences for university staff, students, and property. He directed Vice-Chancellors to take proactive measures to ensure the security and safety of their respective university communities, including issuing statements to reassure staff and students of their safety.

The minister’s advisory also emphasized the importance of students remaining on campus to focus on their academic pursuits, rather than risking exposure to potential dangers during the protests. By doing so, students can prioritize their education and well-being while avoiding unnecessary risks.

The letter concluded with an expression of the minister’s highest consideration and best wishes, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerian university students during this period of planned protests.