AGBOR: Former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, has called on Nigerian students to take their civic responsibilities seriously and actively participate in the country’s democratic processes.
Okowa made the appeal during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the South-South National Students Management Council (NSMC), who commended him for his contributions to student welfare and educational development during his tenure as governor of Delta State.
The delegation was led by Comrade Okoh Ezekiel Oghenetega, Executive Assistant to the governor of Delta State, alongside Hon. Kelvin Enyam, Special Assistant on Student Affairs to the governor of Cross River State.
During the meeting, the student body praised Okowa for implementing policies that significantly improved educational opportunities and welfare for students across Delta State and other parts of the South-South region.
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Responding to the commendation, Okowa encouraged Nigerian students to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the administration has shown commitment to youth empowerment and educational advancement.
The former governor highlighted several initiatives introduced by the federal government aimed at improving student welfare, including investments in educational infrastructure and the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)
He urged students in the South-South region to take advantage of the student loan scheme, noting that enrolment and registration from the region remain relatively low compared to other parts of the country.
Okowa also stressed the importance of strengthening student leadership and building stronger relationships between student bodies and higher institutions.
He advised the NSMC leadership to expand its presence on campuses, collaborate more closely with educational authorities, and encourage students to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in order to participate meaningfully in elections.
The former governor further warned students against the spread of misinformation, urging them to verify information before sharing it on social media or other platforms.
He emphasized the need for continuous civic education that promotes responsible citizenship, entrepreneurial thinking, and discourages negative social behaviours such as drug abuse within academic environments.
Speaking on the country’s economic outlook, Okowa praised the reforms initiated by President Tinubu, noting that they have contributed to increased federal revenue and accelerated infrastructure development.
Expressing optimism about the role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s future, he encouraged student leaders to uphold integrity while mobilizing students for constructive civic engagement.
Members of the delegation assured Okowa that his message would be shared widely across student networks throughout the South-South region.
Also present at the meeting were student affairs representatives from Bayelsa State, Edo State, Akwa Ibom State, and Delta State, as well as officials of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
