Favour Irawo Promises Transparent Financial Management in Bid for NAGS Financial Secretary

From Akpata Idumu in Okerenkoko Federated Community, Favour Irawo is seeking to convince members of the National Association of Gbaramatu Students (NAGS) that accountability, transparency and prudent financial management should remain at the heart of the association's growth.

The 400-level Law student of Michael and Cecilia Ibru University is contesting for the position of Financial Secretary, pledging to strengthen financial record-keeping, improve levy compliance and ensure that students are regularly informed about how association funds are generated and spent.

According to Irawo, her decision to join the race is driven by a desire to contribute to a stronger and more financially stable association.

"I am motivated by the chance to serve my fellow NAGS and help build a stronger, financially stable association, as money is the backbone of our projects, welfare and programmes. If our finances are right, NAGS can do more for its members," she said.

While commending the current leadership for what she described as impressive achievements in transparency and service delivery, Irawo believes there is room for improvement, particularly in financial documentation and communication.

She identified poor record-keeping as one area requiring attention, noting that many students are often unaware of how funds come into the association and how they are expended. She also advocated stronger levy compliance, arguing that many students need greater awareness of the importance of paying dues.

If elected, Irawo plans to introduce a monthly financial bulletin, implement a receipts policy for all expenditures and ensure that no spending occurs without proper documentation and approval.

"As financial secretary, I will ensure monthly reports of the finances, open records and no spending without executive approval or a clear purpose. It would be your money, your right to know where it goes," she stated.

The aspiring Financial Secretary said her suitability for the position is rooted in her reputation for honesty, organisation and accountability. She noted that she has previously been entrusted with managing family funds and handling financial responsibilities in group activities, experiences she believes have prepared her for the office.

Beyond financial management, Irawo envisions a NAGS that invests more in educational and sensitization programmes across Gbaramatu communities, particularly in the riverine areas. She also wants the association to continue promoting Gbaramatu culture through cultural competitions, language programmes and heritage-focused seminars.

Her record of community service includes working as an usher during the Amaseikumor Festival alongside the current NAGS leadership, serving with the EMT Foundation medical team during the festival and organizing an educational sensitization programme at Benikrukru Secondary School focused on supporting both boys and girls. She is also the first runner-up of Miss Benikrukru.

On student unity, Irawo believes financial fairness can help strengthen cohesion among students across different campuses.

"Money alone can't unite us, but how we manage and spend it can. If every campus sees fairness in our finances, unity naturally follows," she said.

She also stressed the importance of visible projects that demonstrate value for students' contributions, suggesting that funding for sports competitions, seminars and skills acquisition programmes would encourage greater participation in NAGS activities.

Irawo draws inspiration from Hon. Adams Tonjoh and Comrade Seigha Nesiama, whom she praised for their leadership, service and commitment to empowering younger generations in Gbaramatu.

As the election approaches, she is urging students to focus on competence and integrity when casting their votes.

"Do not vote for noise but vote for results. If you want a Financial Secretary who will be honest with your money, then give me a chance to serve you," she appealed.

In a final message to voters, Irawo summed up her candidacy in simple terms: "Gbaramatu students should vote for me because I'll manage our money with honesty, transparency and fairness so every student feels the impact."