The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) engaged the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, in a high-level meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Works and the apex student body. During the meeting, the Minister was formally conferred with the prestigious Patronship of NANS.

The delegation was led by the President of NANS, Dist. Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, GCNS, alongside the Senate President and members of the NANS National Executive Council. Also present were representatives of sister unions—including the National Association of University Students (NAUS), National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), and National Association of Colleges of Education Students (NANCES)—alongside other student leaders and stakeholders.

Addressing the Minister, the NANS President stated:

"We are here today not merely to pay a courtesy call, but to recognise hard work, visionary leadership, commitment to national development, invaluable contributions and immeasurable service to the Nigerian people."

The NANS President highlighted that critical road projects executed and supervised under Sen. Engr. David Umahi have direct implications for student welfare, mobility, and educational opportunities:

  1. Direct Cost & Mobility: Bad roads increase transportation costs and cause examination delays for students.
  2. Economic Connectivity: Efficient road networks connect students directly to academic institutions, internships, business opportunities, and the broader economy.
  3. Key Projects Highlighted: Major infrastructure routes cited include the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway, Abuja–Kaduna–Minna route, Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, and the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.

NANS disclosed that it will lead student structures across the country on a comprehensive tour of completed and rehabilitated projects under the Ministry to inspect the infrastructure firsthand and communicate its impact to millions of students nationwide.

Responding, the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON:

  1. Expressed gratitude to NANS for identifying with the Ministry and conferring upon him the Patronship of Nigeria's apex student body.
  2. Assured the delegation of his commitment to working closely with NANS to deepen the relationship between the Federal Ministry of Works and the Nigerian student community.

This engagement marks a significant milestone in establishing strategic partnerships with key government agencies to advocate for student interests and national development through constructive engagement.

Signed:

Geo. Ogunjimi Tolulope James

Chief Press Secretary to the President

National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)