UNILORIN Students Protest Steep Tuition Increase For 2025 Session

Students at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) are raising concerns over a sudden and steep rise in tuition fees for the 2025/2026 academic session, accusing the school of worsening their hardship amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.

The university quietly uploaded the new fee structure on its payment portal, sparking outrage among students who said the move came without prior notice or explanation. Many departments reportedly increased fees by between ₦70,000 and ₦150,000, depending on the course of study.

Students described the development as unfair and inconsiderate, saying it adds to the already heavy financial burden faced by families struggling with high food, transport, and accommodation costs. Those studying courses such as Agriculture, Computer Science, Biochemistry, and Pharmacy now face some of the highest tuition rates in the school’s history.

For instance, Agriculture students will pay ₦278,888, while Computer Science students are charged ₦263,388. Students in Biochemistry will pay ₦252,000, Food Science ₦284,888, Medicine and Surgery ₦389,000, and Pharmacy ₦406,888 per session. The new rates, according to data obtained from students, bring UNILORIN’s tuition close to that of some private universities in Nigeria.

Some students said the school management’s decision shows disregard for the realities of poor students, noting that parents earning modest salaries cannot suddenly afford such fees. Others expressed frustration that the school gave them only two weeks to make payments before late registration penalties begin, describing the move as harsh and unrealistic in the current economic climate.

Foreign students also face sharp increases, with tuition now pegged at ₦1.2 million per session. Several undergraduates said the decision shows that public universities are shifting the burden of underfunding to students rather than seeking sustainable solutions from the government.

Many linked the timing of the increase to the introduction of the federal student loan scheme, NELFUND, accusing the government and institutions of exploiting the initiative to justify fee hikes. Students noted that not everyone qualifies for the loan and that delays in disbursement mean many still struggle to meet payment deadlines.

Across various faculties, students expressed fear that the new charges could force many to drop out. They appealed to the university management to reconsider the decision and engage students in dialogue before enforcing the new payment schedule.

As the backlash grows, the University of Ilorin management has yet to issue an official statement addressing the students’ complaints or explaining the reason behind the drastic tuition increase.