Nigeria: Student groups call for protests nationwide from July 29

Various student groups, including the National Association of University Students and the National Association of Nigerian College of Education Students, have called for indefinite nationwide protests from July 29. The action is in response to various socio-economic issues impacting students, including funding and security. The exact location of the gatherings is unclear; however, gatherings near tertiary education sites nationwide and major government buildings are likely.

The call for protests follows a similar call from various groups to protest nationwide from Aug. 1. Anti-government activists are planning various actions, and pro-government supporters have called for counter-protests. The US Embassy in Nigeria issued a statement on July 26 warning of protests nationwide from July 29 to Aug. 5.

Officials will likely deploy to monitor all gatherings. Demonstrators could march on major roads near universities and government buildings before or after events. Clashes between protesters and security forces are likely if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or are involved in acts of public violence. Localized road travel delays are likely near all protest sites.