The political landscape for the upcoming off-cycle governorship election in Osun State is shifting, with a significant youth bloc declaring its allegiance. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has formally thrown its weight behind the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO.
Why Students Are Rallying Behind AMBO
Announcing the decision in Osogbo on Monday, January 12, 2026, the NANS South-West Zone D Coordinator, Comrade Owolewa Taiwo, outlined the reasons for the endorsement. He stated that the move was largely influenced by Oyebamiji's credible and clean educational background. According to Taiwo, this academic pedigree signals Oyebamiji's capacity to attract competent and qualified individuals into his government, moving away from governance based on cronyism.
The student leader emphasized their confidence in the APC flagbearer's leadership style, believing he would not rely on sycophants to run the state. "His impeccable antecedents and outstanding records of excellence in public service reflect a leader who understands governance from the people’s perspective," Taiwo told journalists.
Launch of a Youth Mobilization Movement
As a concrete step following the endorsement, NANS announced the launch of a dedicated youth and students' movement aimed at mobilizing grassroots support for Oyebamiji's campaign. The association cited his consistent commitment to youth development, education, and sustained engagement with the student community as key motivators.
The group commended Oyebamiji's vision for an inclusive government that ensures the equitable distribution of resources across all segments of Osun society. They noted that his governance philosophy benefits students, women, artisans, professionals, and civil servants alike. NANS maintained that his sterling educational background inspires trust in his ability to draw qualified personnel from across the state, governing beyond narrow interests or factions.
Appreciation for Federal Government's Student-Centric Policies
Beyond the Osun endorsement, the student leaders used the opportunity to applaud President Bola Tinubu for his administration's focus on student welfare and education under the Renewed Hope Agenda. They specifically acknowledged policies designed to ease financial burdens, such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which they said has helped many students remain in school.
The association also expressed gratitude for federal empowerment initiatives, including:
- The Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG).
- The 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.
They described these programmes as crucial for equipping Nigerian youths with competitive skills for the global market. "These policies reflect a government that understands that investing in students is investing in the future of Nigeria," NANS concluded.
This endorsement from a major student body represents a pivotal moment in the build-up to the Osun governorship election, potentially swaying the influential youth demographic towards the APC candidate.
