An opinion
In the bustling lecture halls, hostels, and faculty corridors of universities like UI, OAU, UNILAG, UNIBEN, and AAU Ekpoma, the historic chant “Aluta Continua, Victoria Ascerta” once ignited passion and collective action. In 2026, however, many students quietly ask: Does student unionism still matter, or has it become an expensive distraction from academics and a faded relic of the past?
Historical Roots and Past Glory:
Student unionism in Nigeria traces its origins to the 1920s with the West African Students’ Union (WASU) and gained momentum in the 1940s–50s through the National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS). Unions played pivotal roles in anti-colonial struggles, resistance against military rule, and advocacy against fee hikes and poor welfare. They produced national icons and instilled leadership skills in generations of Nigerians.
Current Challenges in 2026:
The narrative has shifted dramatically. Many unions now grapple with vote-buying, ethnic divisions, cult influence, financial mismanagement, and internal crises. A 2026 study on the impact of student union politics revealed that excessive involvement often leads to role conflict, elevated stress, absenteeism, and poorer academic performance among leaders.
Arguments For Continued Relevance:
Despite the flaws, functional student unions remain essential. Students need a structured platform to negotiate with management and government
Recent cases show that active unions can successfully mobilise against poor welfare conditions.My Opinion and Path to ReformIn my considered opinion, student unionism is still highly relevant in 2026 but requires urgent and comprehensive reform. It must evolve from the old confrontational “Aluta” model to a more developmental, collaborative, and solution-oriented approach, what some have called “developmental advocacy.” Key reforms should include transparent electronic voting systems, mandatory minimum CGPA requirements for aspirants and executives, zero-tolerance policies against cultism and violence, compulsory ethical leadership training, and performance-based accountability mechanisms.Voluntary membership models and partnerships with management on projects like solar power for hostels or skills acquisition programmes could also reduce apathy and conflict.
In Conclusion
Student unionism is neither irrelevant nor beyond redemption, it is a vital institution that has lost its way and desperately needs resuscitation. In 2026, with Nigerian universities facing persistent funding shortages, policy inconsistencies, and infrastructural challenges, students cannot afford to operate without an organised, credible collective voice. The sacrifices of past activists who fought for accessible and quality education impose a duty on the current generation to reform and strengthen unionism into a transparent, accountable, and effective force for welfare, leadership development, and positive change. Without such revival, our universities risk degenerating into mere certificate factories where youthful voices are silenced and future leaders are unprepared. The time for bold, responsible reform is now, the future of campus democracy and Nigeria’s youth leadership hangs in the balance.
