The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity. This move has sparked a range of reactions among the public, reflecting both support and skepticism.

Some Nigerians express admiration for NANS’s bold stance. They see the student body as a legitimate voice for millions of young people whose lives and education are being disrupted by violence and instability. Supporters argue that the government must act decisively, and they echo NANS’s call for stronger backing of the armed forces and the Ministry of Defence. For these citizens, the appeal is a necessary wake-up call to prioritize the safety of students and the general population.

Others, however, are outraged. They question whether declaring a state of emergency would actually solve the problem or simply grant more power to authorities without addressing the root causes of insecurity. Some accuse NANS of politicizing the issue or acting as a mouthpiece for government interests. The association’s defense of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, against allegations of banditry has also drawn criticism, with detractors claiming that such statements distract from holding officials accountable.

There is also a segment of the public that remains largely apathetic. For these individuals, government promises and student appeals have become routine, with little visible improvement in security. They point to ongoing kidnappings, school closures, and attacks as evidence that neither statements nor leadership changes have made a significant difference. This group is skeptical that new equipment or military appointments will bring about real change.

Meanwhile, some Nigerians are cautiously optimistic about the government’s recent efforts. They note the appointment of a new Minister of Defence and investments in military modernization as positive steps. However, they stress that results, not announcements, will determine whether public confidence can be restored.

Overall, the public response to NANS’s appeal is mixed. While some admire the association’s advocacy and urge unity in the fight against insecurity, others remain critical or indifferent, reflecting deep divisions over how best to address Nigeria’s security crisis.