The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has declared a mass protest scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, in response to the continued closure of public primary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by NANS President Olushola Oladoja, the student body expressed grave concern over the two-month-long shutdown, which it says has denied thousands of children—especially those from poor families—access to basic education.
“It is very clear that the government’s silence is an act of negligence and apathy towards the educational destiny of the Nigerian child,” Oladoja said, describing the situation as “unacceptable.”
Last week, NANS gave the FCT Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, a seven-day ultimatum to reopen the schools or face nationwide protests. With no action taken, the association has now confirmed plans for mass demonstrations.
According to the statement, the protest will begin at 7:00 a.m. at the FCDA Secretariat in Area 11, Garki, Abuja. Protesters are expected to wear black in mourning of what NANS termed the “death of basic education” in the country.
“All NANS structures across the FCT and neighbouring states—Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Kaduna—are by this notice directed to commence full mobilisation of students, civil society allies, and education rights activists for this mass action,” Oladoja stated.
He also revealed that Zone A and Zone C leaderships have been tasked with coordinating participation to ensure maximum turnout and impact.
“This protest is not just about education—it is a fight for justice, equality, and the soul of Nigeria’s future,” the NANS president concluded.
