The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit, has urged governments at all levels to prioritise education funding and strengthen scholarship and bursary schemes, arguing that no student should be denied quality education because of poverty.
The call came on Monday as the society inaugurated a new administration to oversee its affairs, while expressing concern over the growing economic pressures confronting students and families across the country.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, Dr. Ajibola Yusuf Salami, said education remains the foundation of sustainable national development and must be protected from the adverse effects of economic hardship.
According to Salami, many students are increasingly struggling to pursue their academic aspirations, not because they lack talent or ambition, but because of mounting financial barriers.
“Nigeria’s students and youths continue to navigate one of the most challenging periods in recent history. Economic hardship, insecurity, rising educational costs and unemployment have placed significant pressure on families and young people,” Salami said.
“Across the country, many students are struggling not because of a lack of potential, but because of increasing barriers to educational and economic opportunities.”
While acknowledging efforts by the Federal Government to improve access to education, particularly through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Salami said more comprehensive interventions were needed to support students and strengthen the country’s education sector.
“MSSN Lagos acknowledges ongoing efforts by both the Federal and Lagos State governments to improve access to education and expand opportunities for students. In particular, we commend the Federal Government for the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which has provided a pathway for many students facing financial difficulties to continue their education,” he stated.
“While this intervention is commendable, more remains to be done.”
The MSSN Lagos president called for increased investment in educational infrastructure, teacher development, research, innovation and student support programmes, stressing that such measures are critical to improving learning outcomes and preparing young Nigerians for future challenges.
“We call for increased investment in educational infrastructure, teacher development, research, innovation and student support programmes,” Salami said.
“We also advocate expanded scholarship schemes, bursaries and targeted support for indigent students to ensure that financial hardship does not become a barrier to quality education.”
He maintained that ensuring access to quality education for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, is essential for national growth and social stability.
The society also formally presented its new set of leaders entrusted with steering the affairs of MSSN Lagos during the next administrative cycle.
Leading the new administration is Dr. Ajibola Yusuf Salami as Amir (President), alongside Bro. Ridwan Aderolu as Naibul Amir (Vice President), Bro. Hamzah Alagbe as Naibul Amir in charge of Higher Institution Affairs, Bro. Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye as Naibul Amir overseeing Graduate Members Affairs, and Bro. Muhammad Mustapha as General Secretary.
The leadership team is complemented by members of the Executive Council and the Sisters’ Circle, headed by Hajia Rofiat Tijani as Amirah.
Salami described the newly inaugurated executives as a blend of experience, youthful energy and institutional memory, committed to advancing the welfare, education and empowerment of Muslim students and youths across Lagos State.
“This administration represents a blend of experience, youthful energy, institutional memory and a clear vision for the future of Muslim students and youths in Lagos State,” he said.
He added that the new leadership would focus on academic excellence, leadership development, youth empowerment, skills acquisition, moral development, community service, and the protection of students’ rights and welfare.
“Our focus shall be guided by academic excellence and educational advancement, protection of the rights and welfare of Muslim students, leadership development and mentorship, youth empowerment and skills acquisition, moral and spiritual development, community service, and strategic engagement with stakeholders,” Salami stated.
He expressed optimism about the future of Nigerian youths despite prevailing national challenges and urged students to remain committed to learning, character development and responsible citizenship.
“At a time of significant national challenges and opportunities, MSSN Lagos remains optimistic about the future of Nigeria and its youth population,” he said.
“We call on students and young people to remain steadfast, pursue knowledge, develop valuable skills, uphold noble character and contribute positively to their communities.”
Salami reaffirmed the society’s commitment to serving as a voice for educational advancement, youth development and good governance, while supporting initiatives aimed at creating greater opportunities for students across the country.
