Space Of Students In Nigerian Political Settings -By Oyindamola Samuel Boladale

Student involvement in Nigerian politics has a long history, dating back to colonial times. In recent decades, students have been at the forefront of protests and activism, advocating for political and social change. Some notable examples include the Anti-SAP protests of the 1990s and the #EndSARS movement in 2020. Meanwhile, Students in particular, could play in nation building and political integration in a multi-ethnic, culturally heterogeneous, socially diversified and politically fragmented stake like Nigeria. However, student political activism in Nigeria can also be met with repression and violence from the government and other actors, although there are many Controversies that has limit the students inspiration for engaging in politics, Most especially In Nigeria Political structure, students have limited political power, but they still play a role in the political landscape. Moreover, Student emancipation in Nigerian politics Should as well refers to the active involvement and empowerment of students in the political process. While students may not have a direct say in the political decisions made in Nigeria, they can still have a significant impact through their actions and advocacy efforts. Infact federalism in Nigeria provides an opportunity for students to be more involved in the political process and to have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. The issues of, Activism, social media and the likes which had also been one of the determining factors for campaign strategy in political space like Nigeria. Most often the learning students Participate in political and social discussions to bring about positive change. Meanwhile, the position of the Students in Nation building is very important as all sectors of the country needs the Students ideas in leadership positions not because of their level of brilliance and agility but also the ability to position all sectors in alliance with contemporary arrangements around the world.

Here are a few ways students can exert their influence:

Students can organize protests, demonstrations, and advocacy campaigns to raise awareness about issues that matters and also advocate for issues that affect their welfare, such as access to quality education and job opportunities.. 

Students who are of voting age can participate in elections and make their voices heard at the ballot box.

 Students can use social media platforms to share information and mobilize support for causes they care about.

Student-led organizations can play a role in shaping campus policies and creating a more inclusive environment.

Students can engage with elected officials and participate in political events to make their opinions known.

Students can be represented in government through student organizations or groups that serve as a liaison between students and government officials.

Students can also participate in political parties and work to bring about change through the democratic process.

Students can play a role in educating their peers on the importance of voting and participating in the political process which could inspire the voting strength of the country its said that the main purpose of going to school is to Acquire knowledge and skills so as to contribute to society and the economy engage in community service and volunteer work to give back to their communities.

Pursue careers in fields that align with their values and contribute to the common good of the state. 

Embrace diversity and promote inclusion, helping to create a harmonious society… 

In the midst of whatever craziness students have going on, they still seek to create calm and harmony which will always reflect to as Diplomacy. They Find ways to achieve balance in the different components of their  life so that one area doesn’t consume and overwhelm them.  in the other way round, and to be pessimistic. The educational system in Nigeria has to break away from the shackles of its colonial country. It was motivated by a desire to inculcate the value of the colonial society legacy. Colonial education was as at then not design to prepare young people for service to their own. Which could however inspire the students to gathered their concerns by following one of this temple:

Acquiescence to assure safety increased activism either supportive or oppositional opportunism as a means of decreasing threats and/or increasing gains a retreat from all forms of involvement Students felt insecure and been afraid of Limited access to education due to budget cuts or changes in funding priorities.

Changes in curriculum and educational standards based on political ideologies.

Censorship of certain topics or perspectives in the classroom.

Decreased opportunities for student activism or free speech.

Changes in immigration policies affecting international students.

Influence of political campaigns or lobbying efforts on student loan policies. 

Issues of negligence by the government, through the academic staff Union of University (ASUU) affecting the school calendar.  It is understandable however that Majority of the Students has over the decades, refused to show capacity, but in recent times many Nigerian Students have been able to convince the world, even though the Green App and the blue bird inspired much that they are capable of handling and influencing leadership positions hence the need to engage them…