The increase in the cost of living in the country has made it difficult for an average Nigerian to live the normal and expected standard of living. Students across tertiary institutions are not left out in this situation, as the present economic state had made it difficult for them to navigate their academic journey across their various institutions.
On May 29, 2023, the President declared the elimination of fuel subsidy on petrol, stating it was for the benefit of the citizens. This choice came during a period when Nigerians were still dealing with the effects of a contentious cashless policy. As a result, the country has seen an increase in the prices of goods and services, causing confusion among the citizens and making it difficult for them to go about their daily lives.
Nigerian University Students Narrate
Feranmi Sunday, a student from the Obafemi Awolowo University stated that the present economic situation is alarming. Feranmi said, “The situation is terrible.” He stated that the market women and traders are even making matters worse for students. They blame the increase in prices of goods on inflation.
Feranmi further said, “The buses are very scarce. I’ve had to trek from campus gate to Mayfair a couple of times,” because bus drivers could not get fuel. Feranmi submitted that the process of remedying the whole situation “starts from us.” He emphasized that traders and market women should regularize the prices at which they sell their products.
Adegoke Babatunde from the University of Ibadan said “it has not been easy.” He explained that it is a stove that is allowed for those who stay in the hostel and as such he has to always buy Kerosene which costs ₦1,100 per liter. He said, “There is almost no difference between buying food and preparing your food yourself.” He further explained that it is always tougher for a student who has to sort out most of his bills with just a little coming from home.
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Pelumi also from Obafemi Awolowo University complained about the money he has to spend on transporting himself to Campus. “Imagine thinking you are done with class for the day and you go home, only for the class rep to send an update on something important”, he said. He further complained about the way some classes get canceled after all efforts to attend them.Pelumi is of the opinion that the government should be able to work with the school to provide buses that charge less fees.
Ibitola Opeyemi from Federal University, Oye-Ekiti said, “Most of us are still depending on our parents for financial support and the government is not supporting the economic growth of the country. So our parents are left with little sources of income.” She further complained about how high the prices of foods are and how indispensable they are. She stated that she has learnt to budget her stipend so well so that she does not go broke before the end of the month. “Another thing that has been of help is going into a business as a student. I thought of not putting all my needs on my parents so I ventured into the food business”, Opeyemi stated.
Adesola, a fresh Obafemi Awolowo University student stated that she is just getting to experience the economic challenges students go through. “I never imagined it was as heartbreaking as this’’ she said. She complained about the ever rising cost of living and the amount she had to spend on transport daily. Adesola said, “At times, I have to stay on campus overnight to reduce costs. Even the basic necessities are so expensive.”
Oluwanifemi Victor from University of Ibadan explained that a student who lacks skills would most likely have a tough time to cope. He stated, “parents themselves have things to cater for”. He further emphasized the fact that although a student might still keep receiving stipends from parents, there are still some gaps to be filled personally. “Most times, cash out exceeds cash in”, he said.
Obayomi Joshua from Federal University, Oye-Ekiti explained that the money he collects at home is not always enough and as such he is expected to manage. “The money my dad gives me cannot be enough as a student”, he said. He stated further that he has to ration his meals in order to be able to balance everything.
All these and more are the sad realities students have to cope up with. The economic situation of the country has caused an inflation that is affecting the everyday lives of students.
