Students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) have raised strong objections to a recent increase in school fees announced by the university management, warning that the development could force many students to withdraw from the institution.
The fee hike, which affects both new and returning students for the 2025/2026 academic session, initially proposed an increase of nearly 100 per cent across various charges, including tuition-related fees and sundry levies.
The announcement sparked widespread protests and criticism from students, parents, and student groups.
Following sustained pressure and negotiations between the university authorities and the Student Union Government (SUG), the Governing Council of UNN reviewed the decision and approved a reduction of the proposed increase to about 60 per cent.
In a press statement on Saturday, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the institution, Mr Inya Agha Egwu, revealed that the management of the university negotiated with members of the students’ body and eventually reached a consensus and agreed that the institution’s sundry charges should be increased by 60 per cent as against a 100 per cent increment proposed by the Council for the 2025/2026 academic session.
According to the agreement reached, the revised fees will still represent a significant increase compared to previous academic sessions, but university authorities said the adjustment was necessary due to rising operational costs and reduced government funding.
The management also indicated that students may be allowed to pay the fees in installments to ease financial pressure on parents and guardians. However, it was confirmed that hostel accommodation fees will not be increased at this time.
Reaction to the Reduction by Students
Reacting to the development, many students expressed concern that the revised charges remain unaffordable, especially amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Student leaders warned that the hike could lead to mass dropouts, particularly among students from low-income households.
The Student Union Government, while acknowledging the reduction from the original proposal, called on students to remain calm and avoid actions that could disrupt academic activities, stating that dialogue with the management is ongoing.
The situation at UNN has drawn wide attention, as it reflects a debate on the rising cost of education in Nigeria’s public universities, with student bodies and civil society groups urging the government to increase funding for tertiary institutions to prevent further fee increases.
As of the time of filing this report, the revised fee structure remains in effect, while students and parents continue to monitor developments closely.
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