Northwest University, Kano, has implemented a fee increase for returning undergraduate students for the 2024/2025 academic session, despite the Kano State Government's recent policy to reduce fees by 50% for indigenes in state-owned tertiary institutions.

The university confirmed the fee hike through a circular issued by its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Directorate on Sunday, June 1, 2025. The revised fee structure affects various components including central registration, administrative fees, and hostel maintenance charges.

Under the new schedule, students in certain departments will face significantly higher costs, with Accounting students expected to pay over ₦50,000 in total fees, making it one of the most expensive programs at the institution.

Contradiction with State Policy

The fee increase comes just weeks after the Kano State Government announced a 50% reduction in registration fees for indigenes studying in state-owned tertiary institutions. This policy, introduced by Dr. Yusuf Kofar-Mata, the State Commissioner for Higher Education, was specifically designed to alleviate the financial burden on students and their families following the recent fuel subsidy removal and rising cost of living.

The apparent contradiction between the state government's directive and the university's actions has raised questions about coordination between state education authorities and the institutions they oversee.

Students have expressed their displeasure through various platforms, including social media and campus forums, calling on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to intervene in the matter.

Student Reactions

The fee increase has sparked significant concern among the student body, many of whom are already struggling with the economic challenges facing Nigerian families. Student representatives have begun mobilizing to bring attention to what they see as a contradiction of the state's educational policy.

As of the time of reporting, neither the university administration nor the state government has issued any statement addressing the apparent policy contradiction. Students are awaiting clarification on whether the university's fee increase will be reversed to align with the state government's reduction policy.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in Nigeria's higher education sector, where institutions often struggle with funding while students and families face increasing financial pressures in a difficult economic climate.