In a significant show of solidarity with the student community, the Edo State Government has thrown its 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.

The state’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, gave the assurance last Friday, when he received members of the student body led by the NANS State Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Miracle Timileyin, and Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Edo State Governor on Student Matters, Comrade Mubarak Jimah at the Ministry’s headquarters in Benin City.

The NANS event themed: “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats,” is aimed at addressing the growing menace of cultism, campus insecurity, and online threats while encouraging academic collaboration and intellectual development among students of tertiary institutions across Edo state.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Iyamu described the initiative as “timely and commendable,” noting that it aligns with the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led state government’s vision for safer, more inclusive, and intellectually vibrant campuses.

“This is not just a student program—it is a vision-driven intervention,” he said. “The government is glad to partner with the student leadership on this noble cause. We are ready to facilitate access to institutions, help with mobilization, and provide every necessary support to make the event a success.”

The Commissioner also lauded the student leaders’ proactive stance on issues affecting campus safety and digital literacy, describing the theme of the proposed event as “deeply relevant in today’s academic climate.”

“Your theme—‘Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats’—could not have come at a more critical time. In an era where both real and virtual threats undermine academic life, this symposium and quiz will serve as a blueprint for student-led solutions,” Dr. Iyamu added.

In his remarks, the NANS chairman thanked the commissioner for his warmth and openness to youth-driven initiatives, stating that the proposed event is not just a competition but a bold campaign for student safety and awareness.

According to him, “This symposium is more than an event—it is a movement. We are mobilizing minds, not just for academic excellence, but for a safer and more conscious student community.”

In a statement issued after the meeting, through his Media Adviser, Ogochukwu Isioma, the NANS chairman said the outcome was resoundingly positive, with the ministry pledging full backing for the program and assuring NANS of collaboration in student-centered initiatives.

“This collaboration with the Ministry ensures that our voice is heard and our initiatives are sustained,” Comrade Timileyin said. “We are optimistic that, with government backing, we will set a new standard for student involvement in policy matters.”

The NANS program is slated for June 20th at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. With the formal blessing of the Edo State Government, organisers are confident that the event will not only spark critical conversations around campus security but also pave the way for enduring partnerships between students and the state.

Other student leaders who attend the meeting included: Comrade Terry Isibor, Financial Secretary/Treasuer, NANS Zone B; Comrade Chima Okochi, Secretary, Planning Committee; Comrade Etinosa Agho; NANS stakeholder; Comrade Andrew Oghenevo, Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Drug Control, and a Member of the Planning Committee, Efe Omogui.