“From ₦90k to ₦580k”: NAU Nursing Students Protest ‘Shocking’ 544% Tuition Increase

Students of the College of Nursing at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi staged a protest on Tuesday over a sharp increase in tuition fees announced by the institution’s management.

The students said the new fee structure raises annual charges from ₦90,000 to ₦580,000 — an increase of about 544 percent.

According to an internal memo dated January 23 and signed by O. I. Ezejiofor, chief medical advisory committee chairman and board chairman of the college, the hospital approved the review as part of plans to upgrade the nursing school.

The memo said the adjustment affects all students in the Higher National Diploma, Basic Nursing and Midwifery programmes starting from the 2025/2026 academic session. Management cited rising operational costs and current economic conditions as reasons for the change.

A breakdown attached to the circular shows ₦250,000 allocated to tuition. Other charges include ₦50,000 each for maintenance and caution fees, ₦50,000 for library services, ₦30,000 for medical fees, and ₦60,000 for examinations.

Additional items listed are ₦20,000 for the student portal, ₦30,000 for transport, ₦50,000 for accreditation, and ₦40,000 for an additional maintenance charge, bringing the total to ₦580,000.

The hospital instructed students to comply with the new fee structure with immediate effect.

On Tuesday, students gathered at the main gate of the hospital to oppose the increase. Some wore their nursing uniforms while others appeared in casual clothing, holding placards that read messages such as “From ₦90,000 to ₦580,000” and “Very bad.” The group marched and sang as part of the demonstration.

The protest followed growing concern among students about the financial impact of the new fees.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the college’s Student Union Government president, Chukwuelue Chisom, said the leadership was aware of students’ concerns and had begun discussions with the hospital management.

Chisom said the fee review was communicated through an official memo and linked to efforts to improve academic standards and meet evolving educational requirements. He added that the union recognises the financial strain the increase could place on students and their families and is seeking dialogue with authorities to address the situation.

He urged students to channel complaints through the student union rather than rely on social media posts or unverified information.

The protest also drew reactions online, with several Nigerians criticising the increase and describing it as excessive given current economic conditions.

As of the time of reporting, NAUTH management had not issued an official response to the protest.