By Olanipekun SHERIFFDEEN
Students across many universities in Nigeria are facing serious financial difficulties following the continuous increase in fuel prices. Many students say the situation has affected transportation, feeding, accommodation, and other daily expenses, making life on campus more difficult.
In recent months, transportation fares within and outside campuses have increased significantly. Commercial drivers and motorcycle operators blame the increase on the high cost of petrol. As a result, many students now spend more money attending lectures and carrying out daily activities.
For some students, attending classes regularly has become difficult because they cannot always afford transport fares. Others now trek long distances to save money.
“Before, I used to take a bike to class every day, but now I trek most times because transport is too expensive,” said a 300-level student.
The increase in fuel prices has also affected food prices around campuses. Food vendors say the cost of transporting goods from markets has increased, forcing them to raise the prices of meals and other items.
Many students complained that they now skip meals or reduce spending in order to survive. Some students who depend on allowances from parents or guardians say the money is no longer enough to meet their needs.
Experts believe the increase in fuel prices is affecting not only students but the general economy. They explained that higher transportation costs usually lead to increased prices of goods and services.
Students have called on the government to introduce measures that will reduce the economic burden on citizens.
Some students also appealed to school authorities to provide welfare support and improve campus transportation systems to make movement easier and more affordable.
Despite the challenges, many students say they remain hopeful that the situation will improve in the future. However, they insist that urgent action is needed to reduce the hardship currently faced by students across the country.
Olanipekun Sheriffdeen is a 400-level undergraduate of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai, Niger State.
