By Mercy Gadia
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on Thursday honoured a member of the House of Representatives, Davidson Akinlayo, for his contributions to student welfare, particularly in funding education and supporting undergraduates.
Akinlayo, who represents Moba/Ilejemeje/Ido Osi Federal Constituency of Ekiti State, received the award at his office in Abuja as part of activities marking the 45th anniversary of the student body, during which 45 Nigerians were recognised for their impact on youth development.
Presenting the award, the President of National Association of Nigerian Students, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, said Akinlayo emerged as one of the most deserving recipients following an independent assessment of his interventions in the education sector.
He said, “We carried out our findings and discovered that nobody merits this award more than you.
“The rate at which you have been paying school fees and supporting students on campuses is second to none. This honour is to encourage you to do more.”
The NANS leader also described the lawmaker as accessible and student-friendly, noting that his responsiveness to young people set him apart.
“You don’t need to have someone’s number before you pick calls. Even when you miss calls, you return them. That shows you are a youthful and student-oriented leader,” he added.
Responding, Akinlayo expressed gratitude to the student body, describing the recognition as a motivation to expand his support for students.
“I am so honoured and humbled that this award is coming at a time when we are all yearning for a better country,” he said.
“This honour will encourage me to do more for Nigerian students. I am ready and willing to support any cause that will take students to a higher level.”
He disclosed that his interventions included funding transportation for students and providing financial incentives to encourage academic excellence.
“I am the first House of Representatives member from my state to provide free buses for students. We reached out to institutions to compile names of beneficiaries, including those who could not afford transport,” he said.
“Students with CGPAs between 3.5 and 4.5 were also given ₦100,000 each to support their studies and encourage excellence.”
The lawmaker also highlighted his involvement in the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that he contributed to the legislative process.
“I was part of those who drafted the bill. We worked rigorously to ensure it was passed quickly because we understand what students go through,” he said.
On the scheme’s impact, the NANS President said it had significantly reduced student dropout rates, rating its performance at 80 per cent.
“Nigerian students have never had it this good since 1999. Over one million students are benefiting. School fees are paid, and stipends are provided,” he said.
He, however, noted that challenges remained, including low awareness in some regions and alleged withholding of funds by some institutions.
Akinlayo also cautioned students against the misuse of artificial intelligence, urging them to prioritise independent thinking.
“AI should be used positively. Students should not allow computers to think for them. Education is about building your own capacity,” he said.
The event was attended by student leaders and stakeholders, who described the lawmaker as a role model and called on other public office holders to invest more in education and youth development.