By, Omowumi Hannah, Ibadan

The National Association of Oduduwa Students, NAOS, has condemned remarks credited to veteran journalist, Dr. Reuben Abati, questioning the decision of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, and other student bodies to inspect Federal Government road projects across the country.

In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji, NAOS on Thursday, the group said Dr. Abati’s position fundamentally misunderstands the meaning of responsible student leadership, citizenship and stakeholder participation in national development.

Recall, Dr. Abati had reportedly described the student road inspection as “curious” and suggested that students were getting involved in activities associated with politicians, instead of concentrating on their studies.

NAOS argued that road infrastructure directly affects Nigerian students’ access to campuses, transportation costs, punctuality, examination attendance, personal safety and overall quality of education.

The association cited NANS’ explanation that its nationwide tour focuses on Federal roads serving tertiary institutions to provide firsthand information on their condition and impact on students.

NAOS referenced the September 23, 2026 meeting where the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, received NANS’ assessment report on Federal road infrastructure in the North-West. The Federal Ministry of Information described the exercise as “a responsible demonstration of youth participation in national development.”

“If students use these roads every day, why should they be discouraged from seeing firsthand how projects affecting their safety and mobility are being implemented?” the statement queried.

The group insisted that studying and participating in civic affairs are not mutually exclusive, stressing that students are also citizens, taxpayers’ dependants and beneficiaries of public infrastructure.

“Student leaders can observe, document, ask questions, engage communities and communicate concerns to the appropriate authorities without pretending to replace professional regulators,” it added.

The association noted that the Federal Ministry of Works itself had welcomed scrutiny and even encouraged NANS to undertake monitoring tours.

However, NAOS urged public commentators and elders to encourage students to combine academic excellence with civic consciousness, commending NANS and other student bodies for the inspection exercise and urged them to maintain “professionalism, objectivity, transparency and constructive engagement.