29th July 2024
In anticipation of the upcoming nationwide protests scheduled to run from August 1 to 10, 2024, Nigerian Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has advised university students to remain on their campuses to ensure their safety. This guidance was conveyed in a letter from the acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Chris Maiyaki, addressed to Vice-Chancellors across the country.
The protests, which have gained significant traction on social media under the hashtags ‘#EndBadGovernance,’ ‘#TinubuMustGo,’ and ‘#Revolution2024,’ have prompted concerns from various quarters, including the presidency and police authorities, who have urged youths to reconsider participating.
The letter from the Ministry of Education underscores the Federal Government’s recognition of the right to peaceful protest while emphasizing the need to safeguard the university community, including staff, students, and university property. It directs Vice-Chancellors to take proactive measures to ensure security on campuses and to reassure staff and students of their safety.
Prof. Mamman’s letter further recommends that students stay on campus and focus on their academic activities to minimize their exposure to potential risks associated with the protests. The Minister concluded with assurances of the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of all university members during this period.
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