By Edwin Nwachukwu
May 5, 2025 – The Collective Movement (TCM), a socio-political group, has extended an olive branch to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), proposing a strategic partnership to tackle pressing issues affecting Nigerian students and youth at large.
According to the founder of TCM, High Chief Franklin Ekechukwu, this initiative follows the recent alleged violent attacks on the NANS president, which have raised serious concerns about the safety, stability, and credibility of student leadership.
Speaking during a virtual meeting held on Saturday, Ekechukwu noted that the attacks have stirred widespread apprehension, with many questioning the underlying motives.
It will be recalled that the NANS president had accused certain individuals of bribery, torture, and abduction – allegedly orchestrated by persons with connections to the presidency but holding no official political office.
These allegations have ignited intense debates on the integrity of student leadership and the urgent need for unity within NANS and among Nigerian youths in general.
In response, TCM believes that partnership with NANS is essential in addressing the numerous challenges confronting Nigerian students and youths.
“By working together, both groups aim to leverage their collective strengths to drive positive change and promote the welfare of students and citizens alike,” Ekechukwu said.
He outlined potential areas of collaboration, including advocacy for student rights, protection of student leadership, and tackling socio-economic issues such as education funding, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.
Ekechukwu emphasised the importance of joint efforts in protecting the rights of students and ensuring their voices are heard.
He further said that the proposed collaboration would help to foster unity and stability within NANS, reinforcing credible student representation and leadership.
“The synergy between TCM and NANS will amplify the voices of Nigerian students and citizens, ensuring the relevant authorities address their concerns,” Ekechukwu added.
However, he highlighted the importance of regular, open, and transparent communication between both bodies to ensure effective coordination and successful implementation of both group initiatives.
He added that the collaboration will also address socio-economic challenges, explaining that the collaborative initiatives will help to tackle pressing socio-economic issues, such as education funding, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.
The TCM founder said that the planned joint efforts, when achieved, will foster unity and stability within NANS, ensuring that student leadership remains credible and effective in representing the interests of Nigerian students, stressing that by working together, TCM and NANS can pool their resources and expertise to drive meaningful change and improve the lives of Nigerian citizens.
“Our collaborative efforts can create a greater impact in the nation’s polity aimed at driving meaningful change and promoting the welfare of students and citizens,’’ Ekechukwu added.
