Tertiary students in Ogun State, under the aegis of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), have urged the Federal and Ogun State governments to increase funding and subvention for public tertiary institutions, citing persistent challenges with infrastructure, research capacity, and student welfare.
The call was made in a statement on Sunday by the newly elected leadership of NAUS, Ogun State Chapter, signed by Chairman Araba Okanlawon, following a review of the state of higher education in the state.
According to the students’ body, improved financial support is essential to sustaining quality education, addressing infrastructural deficits, and aligning Ogun’s tertiary institutions with global best practices.
“We respectfully call on both the Federal and Ogun State Governments to increase subvention and funding for tertiary institutions. Improved financial support is critical to addressing infrastructural deficits, enhancing research capacity, improving staff welfare, expanding student support services, and sustaining quality education in line with global best practices,” the statement read.
While commending the Ogun State Government for recent interventions in the education sector, NAUS emphasized that long-term development of tertiary institutions would depend largely on consistent and adequate funding.
The association also referenced the transfer of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, to the Federal Government, describing it as a strategic move to strengthen funding and academic sustainability.
NAUS stressed that similar attention must be given to other state-owned institutions, many of which continue to struggle with aging infrastructure, limited research facilities, and growing student populations.
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The students further urged the Federal Government to complement state-level efforts by prioritising education funding and ensuring timely release of funds to tertiary institutions nationwide.
They also acknowledged the role of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund in improving access to higher education and reducing financial pressures on students from low-income families.
“As we assume office, we reaffirm our commitment to constructive engagement, responsible advocacy, and the protection of the academic and socio-economic interests of university students in Ogun State,” the association added.
NAUS also paid tribute to its immediate past leadership, led by Adeyemi Opeyemi, for efforts that enhanced student representation and engagement in the state.