NANS Steps In Over Sudden Break
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has secured key concessions from the management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) following tensions over a three-week mid-semester break.
The intervention came after students were left stranded by the abrupt announcement. Consequently, NANS Southwest Zone D held urgent talks with university officials.
In a statement on Friday, the Southwest Coordinator, Adeyemo Josiah, said the move was necessary to address immediate welfare concerns.
No Evictions, Services Maintained
Following the meeting, the university agreed to halt forced eviction from hostels. Students already on campus will remain until resumption.
“Management agreed that students who are currently on campus and residing in their hostels will be allowed to remain until the official resumption date, recognising that many students were already stranded and unable to secure alternative accommodation within such a limited time,” the statement read.
In addition, the school pledged to maintain basic services during the break.
“Management further assured that water and electricity supply will be provided and sustained in all halls of residence housing students who remain on campus throughout the break period,” NANS said.
The talks were led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Akinfala Oluropo.
Transport Fix Promised, Break Under Review
Meanwhile, transport challenges that sparked the unrest were addressed. Management admitted the strain on students and promised improvements.
“Management acknowledged the burden placed on students due to limited campus mobility and agreed to provide additional buses to ease transportation difficulties within the university community,” the statement added.
Attention also turned to the break’s duration. NANS said management would present a reduction proposal.
“Management acknowledged the concerns raised and agreed to present the proposal for reducing the break period to one week before the University Senate, where a final decision will be taken,” it said.
Renovation Clarified as Protest Fallout Lingers
On Awolowo Hall, the university said no renovation has begun. It assured students of proper notice before any relocation.
“It was further agreed that whenever renovation activities are scheduled to begin, proper planning and adequate notice will be given to affected students, including necessary arrangements to ensure that no student is displaced without structured alternatives,” the statement noted.
Earlier, the university declared the break after protests disrupted movement and blocked access roads. The unrest followed a 72-hour lecture boycott from April 14 to April 16, 2026. Students protested transport delays and academic disruptions.
The crisis intensified after the rollout of CNG buses donated by Oluremi Tinubu. Students cited long queues and restricted movement.
NANS to Monitor Compliance
NANS described the outcome as progress and pledged continued oversight.
“These commitments represent significant progress toward restoring stability and protecting student welfare within the institution,” the statement added.