Niger Students Insist On Occupy Niger Protest Over Unmet Demands

A coalition of student groups in Niger State has vowed to proceed with its planned “Occupy Niger” protest if the government fails to meet its demands, despite mediation efforts by the state police command.

The coalition, made up of the National Association of Niger State Students (NANISS), the National Association of University Students (NAUS), and the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee (NANS JCC, Niger Axis), had earlier issued a seven-day ultimatum to Governor Umaru Bago’s administration.

Their demands include payment of bursaries and scholarships, improved student welfare, and urgent reforms in the state’s ailing education sector.

In a statement on Tuesday, the student leaders confirmed they held talks with the Commissioner of Police in Minna, who assured them of efforts to mediate between the students and the government to avert the planned protest.

However, the coalition said its position remains unchanged until all demands are met.

“Niger State students will embark on peaceful protests across Suleja, Minna, Kontagora, Bida, and Mokwa until every legitimate demand is addressed,” the groups declared.

They stressed that their action would be peaceful but firm, warning that excuses or delays would no longer be tolerated.

The coalition added that while it welcomed the intervention of the police, only concrete steps from the state government could prevent the demonstrations.

It also reiterated that once the protest begins, it will not be suspended until all issues are resolved, with students across the state declaring readiness to remain united and determined.