Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, has expressed his ministry commitment to collaborate with the Joint Campus Council (JCC) of National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) to champion Inter-School Quiz Competition in the state.
Iyamu gave the assurance during the weekend when he received members of the NANS leadership team led by the State Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Miracle Timileyin, at his office in Benin City.
The NANS event themed: “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats,” was conceived to address the menace of cultism, campus insecurity, and online threats, while encouraging academic collaboration and intellectual development among students of tertiary institutions across Edo State.
Dr. Iyamu described the initiative as “timely and commendable,” noting that it aligned with the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration’s vision for safer, more inclusive, and intellectually vibrant campuses.
“This is not just a student programme, 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 mobilisation, and provide every necessary support to make the event a success.”
The Commissioner also lauded the student leaders’ proactive initiative on issues affecting campus safety and digital literacy, describing the theme of the proposed event as deeply relevant in current 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 was not just a competition but a bold campaign for student safety and awareness.
“This symposium is more than an event it is a movement. We are mobilising minds, not just for academic excellence, but for a safer and more conscious student community,” he said.
Comrade Timileyin, in a statement after the meeting by his Media Adviser, Ogochukwu Isioma, said the outcome was resoundingly positive, with the ministry pledging full backing for the programme 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.”
Other student leaders at the meeting include a NANS stakeholder, Comrade Terry Isibor and the Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Student Matters, Comrade Mubarak Jimah.
Others include the Secretary, Planning Committee, Comrade Chima Okochi; another NANS stakeholder, Comrade Etinosa; Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Drug Control, Comrade Andrew Oghenevo, and a member of the Planning Committee, Efe Omogui.
