By Adeola Badru
The Southwest Zone of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has aligned student leadership in the region with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following the conclusion of its Leadership Retreat and Mentorship Programme.
In a statement issued by Chairman of the Independent Convention Planning Committee (ICPC), NANS Southwest, Idris Odufuwa, the retreat was described as a strategic platform for mentorship, reflection, and forward-thinking leadership discourse, with discussions centred on leadership development in line with national priorities.
“The future of Nigeria depends on the quality of leadership we nurture today, and this retreat is a deliberate step towards raising leaders who embody vision, responsibility, and renewed hope,” Odufuwa said.
Focus on Leadership Beyond Office
The retreat, themed Leadership Beyond Now and the Renewed Hope Agenda, brought together student leaders, public office holders, traditional rulers, and academic administrators to examine leadership beyond office-holding, with emphasis on service, accountability, continuity, and national relevance.
Among dignitaries at the event was Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government and Conference 57, who emphasised the responsibility of student leaders to think beyond personal ambition.
“Leadership beyond now requires sacrifice, continuity, and a commitment to building systems that outlive individuals,” he said, adding that student leaders who align with national development priorities become partners in nation-building.
Also in attendance was Babatunde Ogunlaja, the Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, who underscored leadership as a sacred trust rooted in discipline, character, and service.
Academic, Institutional Support
Institutional backing for the retreat came from the Lagos State University of Education, whose Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lafiaji-Okuneye, served as Host and Mother of the Day and was represented by Professor Viatonu, Head of Campus, Epe.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Viatonu noted that universities are not only centres of learning but nurseries of leadership, adding that such programmes equip student leaders to think strategically and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Call for Service, Continuity
Also speaking, Olumuyiwa Ogunlari urged participants to prioritise service and institutional continuity.
“Leadership beyond now is about preparing successors, strengthening institutions, and placing service above self. Student leaders must see themselves as custodians of hope and stability within the Nigerian project,” he said.
Participants included NANS Southwest state executives, Students’ Union Government presidents, outgoing executives, aspirants, and other stakeholders within the student movement. Organisers described engagement during the sessions as robust and purpose-driven, reinforcing unity and shared purpose.
The ICPC said the programme laid a strong foundation for a more disciplined, visionary, and united NANS Southwest, reaffirming its commitment to grooming leaders who think beyond the present, act responsibly, and build hope for the future.
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