THIS DAWN — The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced that it has conferred its “Most Outstanding Freedom Fighter of the Year 2025” award on the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The development was disclosed in a letter dated November 14, 2025, signed by the NANS President, Comrade Atiku Isah.
In the letter, which circulated widely on Friday, NANS said the recognition was meant to acknowledge what Kanu represents.
He ascribed to Kanu’s “unwavering commitment, courage, and relentless advocacy for the rights, freedom, and self-determination of his people.”
The association stated that his activism had inspired millions of young people across Nigeria and beyond.
“Your voice and vision have remained a beacon of hope, and we, the students of Nigeria, acknowledge and celebrate your sacrifices and steadfastness in the face of adversity,” the letter said.
NANS added that it was praying for Kanu’s continued strength, protection, and success “in the pursuit of freedom and justice.”
The announcement has prompted reactions across social media, where supporters circulated congratulatory messages.
This included one such messages tagged #NwanneDiNamba, while celebrating Kanu’s recognition.
“Bold Move”
Some commenters also praised NANS for what they described as a bold move and commended its president for what they called “courageous leadership.”
NANS, the umbrella body representing students across tertiary institutions in Nigeria, often issues honors and recognitions to public figures it considers influential or inspirational.
Kanu, whose detention and trial have remained major national issues, has long been a polarizing figure in debates around federalism, civil rights, and separatist agitation in Nigeria.
The latest recognition from NANS is likely to generate further public discussion around youth activism, political expression, and the role of student bodies in national debates.
Nnamdi Kanu — Arrests and Charges
First Arrest: October 2015
Nnamdi Kanu was first arrested on 14 October 2015 by agents of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos.
Following this, he was formally detained from 18 October 2015 after his whereabouts were unknown between 14 and 17 October.
He was subsequently arraigned on an 11-count charge including alleged treasonable felony, criminal conspiracy, and intimidation.
Why He Was Arrested
The Nigerian government accused Kanu of promoting secessionist agitation for the former territory of Biafra via IPOB and his UK-registered radio station, Radio Biafra.
The charges included “terrorism”, managing a banned organisation, and inciting violence.
According to analysts, the government saw his activities as a major threat to state sovereignty and national security.
Rearrest: June 2021
While on bail after the 2015 arrest, Kanu fled Nigeria in 2017.
He was later reported to have been re-arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria on 29 June 2021.
His return triggered renewed court proceedings, and the Nigerian Supreme Court later reinstated terrorism charges against him in December 2023.
Current Legal Status
As of March 2025, Kanu was facing a fresh trial under a fourth judge for a seven-count terrorism and treason charge.
He has maintained a plea of not guilty, and his case remains a focal point of public debate in Nigeria regarding human rights, secessionism and national security.
