In a show of commitment to youth development and academic excellence, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has thrown his weight behind the upcoming one-day symposium and inter-school quiz competition being organized by the Joint Campus Council (JCC) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Edo State Axis.
This endorsement came during a courtesy visit by the leadership of NANS to the Deputy Governor, on Thursday in Benin City, where the student body formally unveiled its plan to host the intellectual contest among tertiary institutions across the state.
NANS Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Timileyin, who led the delegation, emphasized that the event is part of the association’s broader campaign to inspire academic excellence while promoting peace and responsible conduct among students.
“Education remains the bedrock of every society. This quiz is our way of celebrating brilliance and steering attention away from destructive distractions,” Timileyin was quoted as saying in a statement by his Media Adviser, Ogochukwu Isioma.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Comrade Stephen Imafidon Imadeyogie, underscored the importance of partnerships in achieving the vision. “We believe this project can set a new standard for student engagement in Edo State,” he said.
Responding, the Deputy Governor commended the initiative, describing it as “timely and impactful.” He lauded the student leaders for choosing to invest in academic development and moral reorientation, particularly at a time when the youth face increasing exposure to social vices.
“This competition represents more than just an academic exercise,” Idahosa remarked. “It is an opportunity to harness the talents of our youth, celebrate excellence, and build resilience against the temptations of social vices.”
Hon Idahosa expressed readiness to collaborate with NANS in ensuring the success of the competition. “We must invest in our future leaders,” he stated. “Supporting NANS in this initiative aligns perfectly with the vision of my boss and Governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo’s vision for a safer, more educated Edo State.”
Addressing journalists after meeting with the deputy governor, the NANS chairman in a statement by his Media Adviser, Ogochukwu Isioma, expressed optimism about the success of the event, describing the meeting as highly productive.
“With the Deputy Governor’s backing, we are confident this event will not only highlight the intellectual capacity of our students but also help create a more engaged, socially conscious youth population,” he said.
The NANS Edo inter-school quiz, according to the organizers, is designed to promote academic excellence by encouraging students to sharpen their intellect and competitive spirit, and to curb social vices by constructively engaging young people in purpose-driven activities.
The Deputy Governor’s endorsement is seen as a significant boost to the association’s efforts, as the event billed to take place on 20th June at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma with the theme, “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats”, is expected to attract top dignitaries and students from higher institutions across the state.
Other student leaders who attend the meeting included: Comrade Terry Isibor, NANS stakeholder; Comrade Mubarak Jimah, Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Student Matters; Comrade Chima Okochi, Secretary, Planning Committee; Comrade Etinosa, NANS stakeholder; Comrade Andrew Oghenevo, Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Drug Control, and Efe Omogui, Member, Planning Committee.
