Bauchi State Students Union Reacts to NANS Over Youth Empowerment Debate
Introduction
The National Union of Bauchi State Students (NUBASS) has issued a strong statement in response to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) regarding youth empowerment initiatives in Nigeria. The disagreement stems from NANS' endorsement of Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropy, which NUBASS criticized as superficial and unsustainable. NUBASS argues that true youth empowerment should focus on job creation, business capital, and long-term education, rather than temporary handouts like food distribution.
NUBASS’ Position on Youth Empowerment
NUBASS emphasized that Bauchi State has taken concrete steps to empower young people through investments in ICT development, innovation hubs, and business incubation centers. According to the union, over 20,000 youths have benefited from economic empowerment programs, including vocational training and startup capital. Additionally, the Bauchi Youth and Women Economic Empowerment Program has provided interest-free loans to young entrepreneurs, ensuring financial independence rather than reliance on one-time donations.
The union strongly criticized Seyi Tinubu’s charity work, describing it as a mere publicity stunt that does not create jobs, provide skills, or offer sustainable business capital. They challenged NANS to focus on advocating for structured government-led youth development programs rather than promoting individual philanthropy.
Defense of Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed
NUBASS also defended Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed, son of the Bauchi State Governor, stating that he has made significant contributions to youth empowerment through business grants and scholarships. The union highlighted that he has personally provided financial capital ranging from ₦2.5 million to ₦5 million to young entrepreneurs and supported hundreds of students with tuition assistance.
They accused NANS of ignoring critical issues such as the frequent ASUU strikes, increased tuition fees, and the growing unemployment crisis while choosing to attack individuals who have made tangible contributions to youth development.
NANS’ Response
In response, the Senate President of NANS, Usman Adamu Nagwaza, defended Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropy, arguing that it is unfair to expect a private citizen to solve Nigeria’s systemic economic issues. He challenged the Bauchi State government to present evidence of its own initiatives in youth empowerment, job creation, and ICT development. Nagwaza also criticized NUBASS for diverting attention from government accountability by targeting Seyi Tinubu’s efforts.
Public Reactions and Implications
This clash between NUBASS and NANS has sparked broader discussions on the role of philanthropy versus structured government policies in youth empowerment. While some argue that private initiatives like those of Seyi Tinubu provide immediate relief, others insist that they do not address long-term solutions to unemployment and economic hardship.
The debate also raises questions about the responsibility of student unions in advocating for better policies. While NANS appears to support philanthropic efforts, NUBASS insists that structured government programs are the only sustainable way to lift young Nigerians out of poverty.
Conclusion
The disagreement between NUBASS and NANS highlights the ongoing debate on youth empowerment in Nigeria. NUBASS remains firm in its position that sustainable development, through education, business capital, and employment opportunities, should be the priority rather than short-term charity. Meanwhile, NANS defends philanthropy as a commendable effort, arguing that private individuals should not be criticized for stepping in where the government has fallen short.
As this debate continues, it remains to be seen whether student unions will shift their focus towards advocating for long-term economic policies or continue to endorse individual philanthropic efforts.