Stranded Nigerian students have made a heartfelt plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to rescind the federal government’s ban on certificates from universities in the Republic of Benin. The students, who are currently unable to use their degrees for employment or further education, argue that the ban is jeopardizing their futures and causing undue hardship.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) – West Africa Affairs, has been vocal in its opposition to the continued suspension of these certificates. In a recent statement, NANS highlighted the plight of thousands of Nigerian youths who pursued education in Benin Republic due to limited opportunities in Nigeria. The association emphasized that many prominent Nigerians have graduated from these institutions and have proven their competence in various fields.

NANS also pointed out the irony of the situation, noting that some Nigerian universities have faced similar accusations of certificate racketeering without facing such severe consequences. They called for a collaborative approach to regulate and upgrade university education across the sub-region, rather than ostracizing graduates from Benin Republic and Togo.

The students’ appeal to President Tinubu is rooted in the hope that he will consider their future and intervene to lift the suspension. They argue that the ban not only affects their immediate prospects but also undermines regional cooperation and the overall quality of education in West Africa.