Nigerian students at Teesside University in the UK are facing deportation after the currency crisis in Nigeria, which has left them struggling to pay tuition fees.
The crisis stems from the current economic downturn in Nigeria, characterised by soaring inflation (almost 34%) and a plummeting naira (over 100% depreciation against the dollar in a year), severely impacted the students’ savings.
Before starting their studies, these students were required to demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses. However, the economic turmoil in Nigeria eroded those reserves significantly.
The situation was further complicated by a university policy change, reducing tuition payment installments from seven to three, making lump-sum payments more challenging.
A group of 60 affected students, who spoke to the BBC, sought help from the university after some defaulted on payments. Unfortunately, the response was harsh. The students were locked out of university accounts, withdrawn from courses, and even contacted by debt collectors.
One student, Adenike Ibrahim, was on the verge of graduation when she missed a payment. Despite paying 90% of her fees and attending classes, she was expelled and reported to immigration, jeopardizing her visa and forcing her to leave the UK alongside her young son.
“They don’t care what happens to their students,” Ms. Ibrahim lamented, highlighting the emotional toll this ordeal has taken on her and her family.
