Students of the School of Nursing attached to Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, staged a major protest today over a drastic increase in school fees that has sparked outrage among students and parents alike.
Eyewitnesses report that students marched through central Nnewi carrying banners and chanting slogans against what they described as an “unreasonable and unaffordable” fee hike. The college recently increased tuition and associated fees from ₦90,000 per academic session to ₦580,000, a rise of over 500 percent, leaving many families struggling to cope with the sudden financial burden.
Speaking at the scene, a student leader condemned the hike, saying, “This increase is exploitative. It was announced without consultation, and most of us cannot afford it. Our education and futures are at stake.” Many students also highlighted that the fee increase came without any significant improvement in facilities, learning resources, or student support services, intensifying frustration.
The protest in Nnewi reflects a growing nationwide tension over steep and abrupt fee increases in tertiary and professional institutions in Nigeria, raising questions about access to affordable education and the financial pressures faced by students.
Authorities and students are expected to hold further discussions in the coming days to find a resolution that balances institutional needs with students’ ability to pay.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
