About NANS
Who We Are
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is the umbrella body representing all students in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions — including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education — and Nigerian students studying in the diaspora. Since its formation in 1956, NANS has remained the legitimate voice, defender, and mobilizer of Nigerian students nationwide.
With a membership strength of over 40 million students, NANS exists to protect student rights, champion access to quality education, and mobilize for positive national transformation through youth leadership, activism, and advocacy.
Our Vision
To build a unified, progressive, and empowered Nigerian student community that drives educational equity, national development, and global impact.
Our Mission
+ To defend the rights and welfare of Nigerian students across all platforms
+ To promote quality, accessible, and inclusive education for all
+ To unite students across diverse regions, cultures, and institutions
+ To empower students through leadership development, civic participation, and innovation
+ To engage with government and stakeholders on policies affecting the education sector
Our Motto
“Justice, Peace and Excellence”
This motto reflects our enduring commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian student has the right to learn, grow, and succeed ecellently — while promoting peace and justice.
What We Do
+ Advocacy & Representation
We fight for policies that protect students, uphold academic freedom, and advance the right to quality education.
+ Unity & Mobilization
From national conventions to zonal engagements, we foster solidarity among Nigerian students and mobilize collective action for progress.
+ Educational Development
NANS supports institutional reform, digital learning, and capacity building through training, partnerships, and grassroots initiatives.
+ National & International Engagement
We collaborate with ministries, agencies, development partners, and international student bodies to expand opportunities for Nigerian students at home and abroad.
Our Structure
NANS is governed through a democratic framework and operates on three levels:
+ Institutional Level – Representing students via SUGs and SRCs
+ Zonal Level – Divided into Zones A–F, including NANS Diaspora
+ National Level – Led by the Central Executive Council (CEC), Senate Arm (comprising SUG presidents), and the Congress of Nigerian Students
Our leadership is elected through national conventions and accountable to the general student body.
Why NANS Matters
For decades, NANS has been a pillar of student activism, democratic resistance, and educational transformation. From the historic "Ali Must Go" protest in 1978 to today’s digital campaigns for reforms, we remain committed to amplifying student voices and driving change.
Get Involved
Whether you're a student, an alumni, or a partner, NANS invites you to engage, contribute, and grow with us. Together, we can shape a stronger, smarter, and more united Nigeria — starting with education.