VOTE FOR COMPETENCE ONLY; COMR APITI PHANUEL UNVEILS VISION FOR NAGS PRESIDENCY

As preparations intensify for the forthcoming National Association of Gbaramatu Students (NAGS) Worldwide elective convention, Comrade Apiti O. Phanuel, a 300-level Petroleum Engineering student of Igbinedion University, Okada, has outlined his vision for the association as he seeks election as President.

Phanuel, who hails from Kurutie Federated Community in the Ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, said his decision to contest stems from his desire to address challenges facing students and contribute to the growth of the association.

Speaking on his motivation, the aspirant noted that growing up in the creek communities gave him firsthand experience of the difficulties faced by many students in Gbaramatu, adding that this understanding has inspired his commitment to finding practical solutions.

According to him, one of the major challenges confronting NAGS is inadequate funding. He observed that the association often relies on support from individuals due to the absence of a dedicated budget for student affairs within the kingdom.

To address this, Phanuel said his administration would prioritize the pursuit of sustainable funding opportunities and stronger stakeholder engagement to enable the association to carry out impactful programmes.

The presidential hopeful also outlined several initiatives he intends to pursue if elected. These include educational orientation programmes for youths and teenagers, inter-school competitions involving primary and secondary schools, and the appointment of campus coordinators across institutions attended by Gbaramatu students.

He further pledged to promote inter-campus sporting, debating, and cultural activities aimed at strengthening unity among students while preserving the cultural heritage of the kingdom.

Highlighting his contributions to education, Phanuel stated that he has assisted several students in securing admission into the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, and remains committed to supporting educational advancement within the kingdom.

On leadership experience, he cited his previous roles as Acting Youth President of Kurutie Federated Community, Vice President of the National Union of Izon-Ibe Students, Igbinedion University Chapter, and Assistant Secretary-General of Kurutie Federated Community.

The aspirant emphasized the need for inclusive leadership, promising that all Gbaramatu communities and campuses would be fairly represented under his administration.

He also identified student orientation programmes and inter-school competitions as key strategies for encouraging educational participation among young people in the kingdom.

Phanuel described High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, as his leadership inspiration, citing his humility, people-oriented approach, and commitment to collective development.

Calling on students to make informed choices during the election, he urged delegates and members of the association to vote based on competence, vision, and the ability to deliver meaningful progress for Gbaramatu students.

The NAGS elective convention is expected to bring together students from various communities and institutions as they elect new leaders to steer the affairs of the association.