The National Association of Nigerian Students, Republic of Niger Chapter (NANS-RN), has distanced itself from Abubakar Muhammad Uwaisu, warning that he is not its national president.
In a statement issued by its Secretary General, Mustapha Y. Haruna, the association accused Mr Uwaisu of persistently misleading the public by falsely presenting himself as the “National President” of NANS-RN.
“We wish to categorically state, for the records and for the awareness of the general public, relevant government agencies, diplomatic missions, and the international community, that Mr Abubakar Muhammad Uwaisu is not, and has never been, the National President of NANS-RN,” the statement said.
The group described his claims as “entirely false, baseless,” and a deliberate act of impersonation and misrepresentation.
Questions over eligibility, credibility
NANS-RN further questioned Mr Uwaisu’s eligibility, alleging that he failed to meet basic requirements for national service, including screening and aptitude processes of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
It also referenced concerns around his claimed academic background, noting that institutions linked to his studies had come under regulatory scrutiny by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
“It is both alarming and unfortunate that an individual who could not meet the basic eligibility requirements for national service… now seeks to assume a leadership position that demands integrity, credibility, and proven academic standing,” the statement added.
Allegations of misconduct
The association also accused Mr Uwaisu of unethical conduct, alleging that he made disparaging remarks about Musa S. Mamman, Secretary General of the Nigeria–Niger Joint Commission, whom it described as a respected diplomat with a record of service, including at Nigeria’s mission in Sudan.
According to NANS-RN, such actions reflect “a troubling level of moral decadence” inconsistent with the values expected of student leadership.
Call for vigilance
Reaffirming that its leadership is based on legitimacy and due process, the association said Mr Uwaisu lacks the authority, recognition, and institutional backing to represent Nigerian students in Niger Republic.
It urged the public, media organisations, and government institutions to disregard any statements or representations made by him in that capacity.
The group also cautioned agencies, including the NYSC and the Federal Ministry of Education, against engaging with Mr Uwaisu under any official guise.
NANS-RN said it has notified international partners, diplomatic stakeholders, and student bodies that the individual is operating outside its recognised leadership structure.
“The authentic leadership of NANS-RN remains committed to upholding the integrity, unity, and welfare of Nigerian students in the Republic of Niger and will not hesitate to pursue all lawful measures to protect the image and legitimacy of the association,” the statement said.
It urged stakeholders to verify all official communications through recognised NANS-RN channels.
