On Tuesday, the House of Representatives asked Federal government to immediately suspend the implementation of the increase in fees.
The lawnakers expressed concern that the raised fees could lead to a significant number of students discontinuing their education.
This came after the House of Representatives discussed a motion during the plenary session brought forward by Hon.
Aliyu Sani Madaki titled “Request to Cease the Implementation of University Tuition Fee Hikes.” Madaki highlighted the inadequate funding of higher education and the escalating inflation in the nation, alleging that federal universities nationwide had raised their tuition fees by 100% to 200%, and hostel fees had increased by 50% to 100%.
He listed some of the universities that increased their fees to include Bayero University, Kano (BUK), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; the University of Uyo; University of Maiduguri; Michael Okpara, University of Agriculture, Umudike and Federal University, Dutse, among others.
He expressed concerns that the hike in fees by the universities is happening against the worsening poverty level in the country, inflation and high rate of unemployment and the recent fuel price hike.
Also concerned that the increase could cause disruptions for a number of students who can not afford the fees and, while many of them would be forced to defer their studies, others could drop out;
He said: “Worried that the hike may aggravate the already volatile situation in the country as students are already making threats which could lead to an uprising against the Federal Government, with grievous consequences for the country as a whole;
“Also worried that an increased rate of university dropouts may further worsen insecurity in Nigeria as the frustrated students may find the wrong outlets to express their grievances.
“Cognizant that tertiary education is imperative in fostering growth, reducing poverty, and boosting the prosperity of any nation;
The House, thus, requested the Federal Ministry of Education to promptly reassess the recent fee structure implemented in Federal Government Colleges and return to the previous arrangement.
It emphasized that the Federal Government should promptly take measures to sufficiently finance the education sector by augmenting budgetary allocations to guarantee Nigerian students’ access to high-quality and reasonably priced primary and secondary education.
Additionally, the House decided to conduct an inquiry into the fee increments at all Federal Universities and the surge in school fees for students attending Federal Government Colleges nationwide, aiming to discover sustainable solutions to the issues faced in the education sector.
