The approval and announcement of the Student Loan Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Nigeria were expected to bring relief to many students burdened by the high cost of education.
However, a surprising consequence has emerged: a drastic increase in school fees across several higher institutions in the country.
This move has sparked debates within the academic community about the impact on accessibility to higher education for the less privileged. It has also raised concerns among students and parents, as the increased fees now present additional financial challenges.
In response to the situation, the House of Representatives urged Federal universities to suspend the implementation of the fee hikes, and President Tinubu issued a directive to that effect. Furthermore, the President approved the allocation of buses to all higher institutions to alleviate transportation difficulties.
While the student body has expressed joy and satisfaction with these developments, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has opposed them, arguing that the government has failed to provide sufficient funding to support higher institutions adequately.
The table below contains a comprehensive list of universities in Nigeria that have hiked their fees in the wake of the new legislation.
Note that the actual tuition fee may vary based on discipline, course of study, indigeneship, and new or returning students. For instance, medical students and law students are expected to pay more in most of these universities.
| # | University | Old Tuition | New Tuition |
| 1 | Ambrose Ali University (AAU) | ₦55,000 | ₦161,500 |
| 2 | Agbor and Dennis Osadebe University | ₦70,000 | ₦185,000 |
| 3 | Bayero University, Kano (BUK) | ₦39,000 | ₦95,000 – ₦105,000 |
| 4 | Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) | ₦80,000 | ₦201,815 |
| 5 | Delta State University (DELSU) | ₦37,000 | ₦100,000 |
| 6 | Edo State University | ₦145,000 | ₦378,500 |
| 7 | Ekiti State University (EKSU) | ₦56,000 – ₦171,000 | ₦200,000 – ₦750,000 |
| 8 | Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) | ₦40,000 – ₦48,000 | ₦69,600 – ₦115,000 |
| 9 | Federal University, Dutse (FUD) | ₦37,000 | ₦97,000 |
| 10 | Federal University, Lokoja (FUL) | ₦47,000 – ₦56,000 | ₦113,000 – ₦188,500 |
| 11 | Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU) | ₦27,500 – ₦93,000 | ₦67,925 – ₦201,210 |
| 12 | Niger Delta University (NDU) | ₦37,000 | ₦100,000 |
| 13 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | ₦26,000 | ₦55,000 |
| 14 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | ₦20,000 | ₦68,500 |
| 15 | University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) | ₦82,000 | ₦225,000 |
| 16 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) | ₦69,000 – ₦73,000 | ₦170,000 – ₦190,000 |
| 17 | University of Delta | ₦65,000 | ₦170,000 |
| 18 | University of Ibadan (UI) | ₦25,000 | ₦50,000 |
| 19 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) | ₦16,000 – ₦40,000 | ₦100,750 – ₦190,250 |
| 20 | University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | ₦26,000 – ₦100,000 | ₦104,000 – ₦238,000 |
| 21 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | ₦40,000 – ₦83,000 | ₦85,000 – ₦120,000 |
| 22 | University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | ₦45,000 | ₦213,000 |
| 23 | University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | ₦48,000 | ₦105,000 |
| 24 | University, Owerri | ₦65,000 | ₦120,000 |
| 25 | Usman Danfodiyo University (UDUS) | ₦48,000 – ₦70,000 | ₦73,000 – ₦109,000 |
Conclusion
The approval and announcement of the Student Loan Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu were intended to ease the financial burden on Nigerian students pursuing higher education.
However, the unexpected consequence of a drastic increase in school fees across various universities has raised concerns about accessibility and affordability.
It is imperative for stakeholders, including the government and university administrations, to engage in constructive dialogue to find a balance between improving educational standards and safeguarding students’ right to affordable education.
FAQs
Why are Nigerian universities increasing their school fees?
Universities have cited various reasons for increasing school fees, including poor government funding, rising inflation, and the need to improve infrastructure, enhance academic facilities, and maintain a high standard of education.
Did the Student Loan Bill lead to the increase in school fees?
Yes. According to ASUU, the implication of the student loan bill is that universities no longer receive funding from the government. Therefore, an increase is imminent to ensure smooth running of the institutions.
How are students and parents reacting to the fee hikes?
Students and parents have expressed dismay and concern about the sudden increase in school fees. Many are worried that the higher costs may prevent students from low-income backgrounds from accessing higher education.
Are there any measures to address the affordability of education for students?
Yes, some universities offer flexible payment options, like Federal University Dutse (FUD) with two installments and discounts to staff member’s children. Additionally, Student unions are advocating for transparency and government intervention to ensure affordable education.
How can students cope with the increased fees?
Students may explore various options to cope with increased fees, such as applying for scholarships, seeking part-time work, or considering student loans.
Is the fee increase uniform across all Nigerian universities?
No, the fee increase is not uniform across all universities in Nigeria. Each institution sets its own fee structure based on its unique financial situation, infrastructure needs, and other factors.
How can the government address the issue of rising school fees?
The government can address the issue by closely monitoring fee adjustments to ensure they are reasonable and justifiable. It can also increase funding to higher education institutions to reduce the burden on students and promote transparency in the process.
What are some long-term solutions to ensure affordable education in Nigeria?
Long-term solutions may involve increasing government investment in education, creating more scholarship opportunities, improving the economy to enhance individuals’ ability to afford education, and encouraging public-private partnerships to support education funding.
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