NIGERIA: NANS Lagos Raises Alarm Over Electricity Crisis Across State Universities

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lagos State Chapter, has urged the government to urgently resolve the epileptic power supply crisis affecting campuses across Lagos State.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday at the Lagos State College of Health Technology, the newly elected Lagos State NANS chairman, Abdul-Raheem Abdul-Quadri, stated the severe impact of inadequate power supply and infrastructural deficits on students’ academic pursuits.

Abdul-Quadri, who expressed gratitude for the successful NANS election held on December 14, 2024, pointed out the dire electricity situation at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) and other institutions in the Epe region.

He said: “LASUSTECH students currently receive only about four hours of electricity daily, despite being categorized under Band A, which should guarantee up to 20 hours of power supply

“This has seriously disrupted academic activities.”

He called on the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to address the issue immediately, noting that cable theft has further aggravated the power supply problems in Epe, affecting institutions like Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCOPED), and Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH).

NANS also appealed to the government and Ikeja Electric to restore electricity to the affected areas.

“We demand immediate intervention to bring an end to the prolonged darkness in Epe. Enough is enough,” NANs declared.

The association also addressed concerns at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where students face inadequate hostel accommodation and challenges with online learning. Despite a recent increase in tuition and utility fees, students reportedly lack access to basic campus facilities. NANS urged UNILAG management to resolve these issues and ensure a conducive learning environment.

The Lagos State College of Health Technology was also spotlighted, where a 30% tuition fee hike has intensified financial burdens on students. NANS called on the institution’s management to reconsider the increase, stressing the need to prioritize affordable education amid harsh economic conditions.

Further grievances were raised regarding a policy that excludes students transitioning from part-time National Diploma (ND) to full-time Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes from participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

NANS urged the NYSC and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reverse the policy, arguing that it unfairly limits students’ opportunities and jeopardizes their future prospects.

NANS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting students’ rights and improving their welfare, calling on all stakeholders to prioritize education as a fundamental pillar for national development.