A self-proclaimed student leader has stirred debate with a strong endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a viral video circulating on Monday, he asserted that every Nigerian student is benefiting from current policies and will back Tinubu in the 2027 election.
“At this juncture, there’s no Nigerian student that will say they’re not enjoying the policies of Tinubu. Every student will vote for him in 2027,” the leader declared. He specifically praised the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for easing financial burdens on students.
The statement comes as the Tinubu administration highlights education reforms. NELFUND has disbursed loans to hundreds of thousands of students since its launch, aiming to remove barriers to higher education. Supporters point to this as a key achievement of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
However, the claim has drawn sharp criticism online. Many students and commentators rejected it outright. “What a shameless lie! No Nigerian student is enjoying Tinubu’s policies,” one user posted, citing skyrocketing school fees, unaffordable hostels, and hunger on campuses.
Others highlighted security failures. Recent kidnappings of students, including cases lingering for weeks, underscore persistent challenges despite government efforts. Critics argue the leader’s optimism ignores widespread hardship from fuel subsidy removal and currency reforms.
The leader, described as self-proclaimed, echoes broader pro-Tinubu voices among some student groups. Factions within the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have faced accusations of political influence, including claims of sway by the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu.
Tinubu’s team continues to defend its record. Officials cite trillions saved from subsidy removal, growing foreign reserves, and GDP improvements. Student loan beneficiaries in some states have publicly expressed gratitude and support for re-election.
Yet, the backlash reflects deeper frustrations. High inflation, living costs, and insecurity continue to test public patience as the 2027 race heats up. Diaspora supporters backing Tinubu have also faced accusations of hypocrisy for praising policies while living abroad.
This latest video adds to the growing political noise. While some see genuine progress in education access, others view such endorsements as disconnected from ground realities facing most students. The incident highlights the widening divide in perceptions ahead of future polls.
As reactions pour in, the self-proclaimed leader’s words may boost pro-Tinubu narratives in certain circles but risk alienating a broader, struggling student population. Nigeria’s youth vote could prove decisive in 2027.
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