Ogun NUJ, NANS Bury the Hatchet, Media Ban Lifted
In a significant move aimed at fostering collaboration between the Press and the student body, the Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has lifted the Media ban on the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun State Chapter. The development follows a reconciliation meeting held at the Iwe Iroyin Press Centre in Abeokuta.
The historic meeting, which brought together top officials from both organizations, marked the end of months of tension and misunderstanding, signaling a renewed commitment to cooperation and mutual respect.
Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju, Chairman of Ogun NUJ, used the occasion to stress the importance of integrity and responsible leadership among student executives. He urged the current NANS leadership to resist external pressures and restore the association’s independence and credibility.
“Student leaders of the past acted with courage and principle, always prioritizing the collective interest of their peers. I call on today’s leaders to revive that spirit and lead with integrity,” Comrade Olanrewaju said. He also lauded the Ogun State Government under His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for supporting both education and the media.
Speaking for NANS, Comrade Gabriel Abiola Francis, Chairman of the Ogun Joint Campus Committee (JCC), described the meeting as “historic,” explaining that past misunderstandings arose from miscommunication and misrepresentation. He affirmed the Association’s respect for journalists and pledged that no form of attack or defamation against the media would be tolerated.
“From this point onward, all official statements from NANS Ogun JCC will come directly from authorized leadership. We seek partnership and constructive engagement with the press, not confrontation,” Comrade Francis stated.
After thorough discussions, both NUJ and NANS agreed to reconcile, strengthen ties, and work together for the benefit of students and the wider public. The lifting of the media ban marks a new chapter in Ogun State’s student-media relationship, characterized by cooperation, transparency, and mutual respect.
Comrade Olanrewaju concluded by commending the maturity displayed by the NANS leadership and reaffirmed NUJ’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote education, youth development, and good governance.
