The House of Representatives has taken a significant step by urging Federal universities to suspend the implementation of recently raised tuition fees. Lawmakers expressed their worry that the fee hikes could lead to an alarming increase in student dropouts. The motion, titled “Call to Suspend the Implementation of Increase in Tuition Fees of Universities,” was presented during the plenary session by Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki.
Hon. Madaki emphasized the inadequate funding of Tertiary Education coupled with rising inflation in the country. He alleged that federal universities nationwide had raised their tuition fees by a staggering 100% to 200%, while hostel fees had seen an increase of 50% to 100%. Among the universities mentioned were Bayero University, Kano (BUK), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, the University of Uyo, the University of Maiduguri, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, and Federal University, Dutse.
Expressing concerns over the socioeconomic context of the country, Hon. Madaki highlighted the existing high levels of poverty, inflation, unemployment, and the recent fuel price hike. He warned that the fee hikes could create disruptions, with some students unable to afford the increased fees, leading to study deferrals or even dropouts. The lawmaker also expressed fear that such a situation might provoke student unrest and pose serious consequences for the nation.
Recognizing the vital role of tertiary education in driving growth, reducing poverty, and fostering prosperity, the House called upon the Federal Ministry of Education to promptly review the new fees structure in Federal Government Colleges and return to the previous system. Additionally, they urged the Federal Government to prioritize adequate funding for the education sector by increasing budgetary allocations. This step aims to ensure that Nigerian students have access to high-quality and affordable basic and senior secondary education.
Furthermore, the House resolved to launch an investigation into the fee increases in all Federal Universities and the corresponding surge in school fees for students in Federal Government Colleges across the country. This comprehensive review seeks to identify long-term solutions to the challenges facing the education sector.