The Arewa Female Students Association has been urged to leverage its growing influence and network of young women to advocate for peace and push back against insecurity across Nigeria.
Call to Action by Former Presidential Candidate
The Former Presidential Candidate of the National Community Movement Party, Comrade Babatunde Ademola, made the call yesterday in Abuja while receiving an award of recognition from the association. He called on the female students to use the platform as a critical space to advocate for the many Nigerians affected by insecurity, including women, children, and the elderly who have been kidnapped, displaced, or harmed in the northern region by various insurgencies.
Ademola, who was also a former president of the Youth Arise Movement, said: “The Arewa Female Students Association should continue to stand as a beacon of hope for both Northern and Southern Nigeria, especially at a time when the nation is grappling with insecurity. Together, we can promote peace, understanding, and national development through unity, education, and collaboration among young people.”
He emphasized that what began as a regional security challenge has now become a national issue affecting all regions, and that students, particularly women, have a responsibility to raise awareness and drive solutions.
AFSA President Praises Ademola
Speaking during the ceremony, AFSA President Ms. Rafeeah Abdullahi Hasaan described Comrade Ademola as “a man of higher denomination and magnitude,” whose humanitarian work and commitment to education and entrepreneurship continue to inspire female students and young Nigerians nationwide. She said the association honoured him for his exemplary service to society and his unwavering support for initiatives that promote education, youth development, and national progress.
Commitment to Youth Empowerment
In his acceptance speech, Comrade Ademola commended AFSA members for their dedication to unity and female student empowerment. He stressed that their platform was more critical than ever as Nigeria battles insecurity and socio-economic challenges. The event ended with the presentation of the award plaque, group photographs, and a renewed commitment from both AFSA and Ephraim International Investment Limited to partner on youth empowerment, educational advancement, and national cohesion.
AFSA, which represents female students across tertiary institutions in the 19 northern states, says it will intensify its mentorship, leadership training, and community service programmes to equip members to be change-drivers in their communities.
