The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC), Lagos State Axis, has passed a vote of confidence on the management of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), following a courtesy and fact-finding visit to the institution led by its Chairman, Comrade Quadri Ishola Odewunmi.
The delegation was received by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor B.B. Lafiaji-Okuneye, alongside principal officers of the university, where both parties held extensive discussions on issues affecting students and the institution.
According to NANS JCC Lagos, the visit formed part of its ongoing oversight and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting the welfare of students across tertiary institutions in Lagos State. Discussions centred on the implementation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), concerns relating to student loan disbursements, the ongoing sexual assault case involving a lecturer, the establishment of student unionism, student orientation, and the inclusion of students living with disabilities in campus activities.
NELFUND: Management Explains Refund Process
Addressing concerns surrounding the NELFUND Student Loan Scheme, the university management clarified that only graduating (400 Level) students who had previously paid their tuition fees are currently eligible for direct refunds.
The management explained that, following consultations with student representatives across the various faculties, it was agreed that students in 100, 200 and 300 Levels would have the NELFUND payments retained as credit balances to offset their tuition fees in the next academic session rather than receive cash refunds.
According to the university, the arrangement was designed to promote accountability and prevent situations where students might spend refunded funds on other needs and subsequently struggle to pay tuition if future NELFUND disbursements are delayed.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that this approach guarantees uninterrupted registration, academic participation and examination eligibility for continuing students, while graduating students, having completed their programmes, are entitled to direct refunds.
Speaking after the meeting, Odewunmi confirmed that refunds for several final-year beneficiaries are already in progress.
To further support students accessing the scheme, NANS JCC Lagos announced plans to establish a NELFUND Affairs Committee that will assist beneficiaries experiencing challenges, provide guidance throughout the application process and educate students on the objectives and benefits of the scheme.
University Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Sexual Harassment
The meeting also reviewed the ongoing sexual assault case involving a lecturer.
NANS JCC Lagos noted that it has monitored the matter since it was first reported and sought an official update from the university on the institutional steps taken.
The management disclosed that the lecturer, Mr. Afuye Williams, has been placed on indefinite suspension pending the conclusion of investigations. It further confirmed that the university’s legal team is actively handling the matter while reiterating LASUED’s zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment, domestic violence and all forms of gender-based violence.
The university also encouraged members of the university community with relevant information to cooperate with investigators, assuring them of adequate institutional support throughout the process.
Following the briefing, NANS JCC Lagos commended the Vice-Chancellor and management for what it described as a prompt, transparent and responsible institutional response, while reaffirming the importance of ensuring justice through due process.
NANS Calls for Support Fund for Survivors
While applauding the university’s response, the student body appealed to the management to consider establishing a financial intervention framework for survivors of sexual assault and other forms of gender-based violence.
According to the association, many survivors are discouraged from pursuing justice because of the financial burden associated with legal representation, transportation, medical examinations, counselling and other incidental expenses.
NANS JCC Lagos maintained that a dedicated support fund would complement the university’s existing policies and encourage more survivors to seek justice without financial constraints.
Student Union Government Initiative Receives Attention
The association also urged the university to commence the process of establishing a functional Students’ Union Government (SUG), noting that LASUED has graduated its pioneer set of students and has matured institutionally to sustain democratic student representation.
Responding, Professor Lafiaji-Okuneye recalled her own history in student leadership, having served as Sports Director of the Lagos State University Students’ Union, Treasurer of LASU-ASUU and Dean of Student Affairs.
She reaffirmed her belief in responsible student unionism and disclosed that the university has begun considering modalities for introducing structured student representation as an interim measure before the eventual inauguration of a Students’ Union Government.
Protecting LASUED’s Reputation
Both parties also stressed the need for continuous orientation and sensitisation of students on protecting the image and reputation of the university.
They agreed that actions capable of damaging the institution’s reputation ultimately affect the value and public perception of certificates awarded by the university.
NANS JCC Lagos pledged to continue partnering with the university to promote responsible conduct among students.
Inclusion of Students Living with Disabilities
During the meeting, the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Dauda, advised the student leadership to deliberately mainstream the interests of students living with disabilities in its programmes and advocacy activities.
The recommendation was welcomed by NANS JCC Lagos, which pledged to prioritise inclusivity in its policies and engagements across tertiary institutions in the state.
Commendation for Youth Empowerment
The association also commended the Vice-Chancellor for what it described as her administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through the employment of qualified young Nigerians, including former student leaders, within the university.
Vote of Confidence
At the end of the engagement, NANS JCC Lagos expressed satisfaction with the explanations and assurances provided by the university management on all issues raised.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with tertiary institutions across Lagos State in advancing transparency, accountability, quality education and student welfare.
Consequently, the leadership of NANS JCC Lagos unanimously passed a Vote of Confidence on the administration of Professor B.B. Lafiaji-Okuneye, citing the management’s openness to dialogue, responsiveness to students’ concerns, commitment to accountability, dedication to justice and sustained pursuit of academic excellence and institutional integrity.
