Rising economic pressures in Nigeria are making it increasingly difficult for many families to keep their children in school, as private schools continue to raise fees amid inflation and higher operational costs.
Several private schools have increased tuition and transportation charges by between 30 and 50 per cent, citing rising fuel prices, electricity costs, and general inflation. This has forced some parents to consider transferring their children to cheaper schools or public institutions, while others are withdrawing them entirely due to financial strain.
Public schools remain significantly cheaper, with fees generally ranging from about ₦5,000 to ₦25,000 per term depending on level. However, even these have reportedly increased in recent years, though they remain more affordable than private options. Concerns are growing that more children could end up out of school as household incomes continue to shrink.
Parents interviewed across Lagos and Ogun states described sharp increases not only in tuition but also in transport costs. In some cases, bus fees have nearly doubled, adding further pressure on already stretched family budgets. Many say school expenses now take a major share of their monthly income.
Some parents explained that despite the rising cost, they prefer private schools due to perceived decline in public school quality, overcrowding, and inadequate facilities. Others, however, say they have no choice but to withdraw their children or switch schools because they can no longer cope.
School owners, on their part, say the increases are unavoidable. They point to the rising cost of diesel, staff salaries, utilities, and transportation, noting that many institutions are struggling to stay operational. Some have also reported losing pupils after raising fees, while others say parents are now requesting installment payments more frequently.
Education sector stakeholders have warned that continued economic pressure could worsen Nigeria’s out-of-school children challenge. Reports suggest millions of children are already outside the education system, with concerns that the number could rise if affordability continues to decline.
There are also calls for government intervention, including tax relief for private schools and improved funding for public education, to ease the burden on families and prevent further decline in school enrollment.
