EPOCH Movement Gains Momentum as FCT Loyalists Endorse Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (BABTEE) for NANS Presidency; Comrade Anzaku Shedrack Welcomes Delegation

By Adesakin Adefemi

A delegation of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) loyalists from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Wednesday, February 19, 2026, visited the residence of Comrade Anzaku Shedrack, General Secretary of NANS, to publicly declare their support for Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, popularly known as BABTEE, as the next President of NANS. The group arrived with printed shirts, caps, and banners, all self-sponsored, as part of their mobilization under the EPOCH Movement for BAKITI.

The delegation, which included notable student leaders such as Prince Monsur Akeje, Former Vice Chairman of Kogi; Jeedah Abdul of JCC FCT Campus Affairs; Muhammed Nasiru, NANS FCT Assistant Secretary General; Treasurer Abdullahi Hajarah Usman; Vice Chairman Itz Jasmine; and five other comrades, stated that their endorsement of BABTEE was based on his “stellar leadership qualities, accessibility, capacity, integrity, and self-esteem,” which they described as essential for the next phase of student leadership in Nigeria.

Speaking during the visit, Comrade Anzaku Shedrack expressed surprise and admiration for the initiative, noting that it was a clear sign of growing youth consciousness and active participation in student politics. “This is a testament to the fact that the younger generation is feeling the impact of NANS and is ready to take ownership of its future,” he said.

He further commended the delegation for their foresight and commitment, describing their actions as a “catalyst for a new era of inclusive and transparent student leadership.” He emphasized that the EPOCH Movement represents a collective vision for unity, equity, and progressive representation across Nigerian campuses.

The General Secretary highlighted that BABTEE’s leadership style aligns with the aspirations of students nationwide, adding that his accessibility and integrity have earned him widespread respect. He noted that the movement would serve as a rallying point for students seeking genuine representation and accountability.

Comrade Anzaku called on other student leaders and stakeholders across the country to join the EPOCH Movement, stressing that it is not just about one individual but about building a sustainable, all-inclusive platform for student advocacy. He described the movement as “the beginning of a new chapter in NANS history.”

The event came with a declaration of solidarity, as the FCT loyalists pledged to intensify grassroots mobilization on campuses, promising that “everywhere will feel the heat of this movement.” They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring BABTEE’s emergence as NANS President, describing it as a mission to “rewrite the narrative of student leadership in Nigeria.”

The EPOCH Movement for BAKITI continues to gain momentum, with stakeholders expressing optimism that it will redefine student unionism and set a new standard for youth leadership across the nation. Observers note that the movement’s emphasis on integrity, inclusiveness, and grassroots engagement could signal a transformative shift in how student leadership is perceived and practiced in Nigeria. As preparations for the NANS elections gather pace, all eyes remain on BABTEE and the growing coalition behind him, whose collective energy may well shape the future of student representation in the country.