The Kano axis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong condemnation against Northwest University, Kano, over what it described as an "unconscionable" tuition fee increase of over 300 percent.

In a press release issued by Comrade Abdulganiyu Shehu Dalhatu, Chairman of the NANS Joint Campus Council (JCC) Kano Axis, the student body expressed "shock and disgust" over the university's decision, particularly at a time when many Nigerian families are facing severe economic hardship.

The student organization characterized the increase as "outwardly insensitive" and a "violation of the right to accessible and affordable education," warning that if implemented, many students would be forced to abandon their education.

NANS highlighted the contradiction between the fee hike and Kano State Government's apparent commitment to education, noting that the state had allocated ₦168.4 billion (31% of the total state budget) to the education sector for 2025 and had previously declared an emergency in the education situation.

"The university management and Kano State Government should realize that education is a right, not a privilege for rich people," the statement emphasized.

Demands and Potential Actions

The student body has issued several demands, including:

1. An immediate reversal of the tuition increment and return to previous rates

2. Clarification and implementation of the previously announced 50% discount for students in state-owned tertiary institutions

3. Urgent action from the Kano State Government to align its education policies with economic realities facing ordinary citizens

Comrade Dalhatu warned that if these demands are not met, NANS would mobilize students for peaceful assemblies and potentially shut down academic activities through "lawful processes."

The association reaffirmed its commitment to fighting for students' rights and welfare, particularly regarding affordable education for all socioeconomic classes.

This development comes amid growing concerns about the affordability of higher education across Nigeria, with several institutions facing similar protests over fee increases in recent months.

As of publication time, neither Northwest University authorities nor the Kano State Government had issued an official response to NANS' demands.