As schools resume on September 9, parents in Delta State are raising concerns over rising costs of tuition, transportation, and basic goods, which have placed additional pressure on household budgets.
In interviews conducted on Sunday, many parents expressed frustration over the financial strain they are experiencing as the new academic session begins amidst Nigeria’s ongoing economic difficulties.
Chimuze Eze, a banker, remarked that the increases in school-related expenses from last year have persisted, worsening the situation.
“Last year, we saw school fees increase and transportation costs nearly double. This year, we are facing the same challenge,” Eze said. “The recent petrol price hike will have a ripple effect on transportation, food prices, and tuition fees. Everything is going up.”
Eze foresees tough days ahead for parents as students return to school. “We are not looking forward to these challenging times. We just hope for urgent changes,” he added.
Jessica Nana, a mother of two, expressed her difficulties in preparing her children for the new term. “Things are really tough. My children resume school next week, and I can’t afford everything they need,” she said.
Nana emphasized the surge in school fees and transportation costs, making it hard for parents to cope. “Bus fares are now so high, and unless prices come down, it could disrupt school resumption. Everything has tripled in price.”
Businessman Joseph Okoh revealed that he had to move his children to a more affordable school to manage the rising costs. “I had to make that decision to cover other essentials that have also doubled. Transportation and food expenses are overwhelming. I hope things get better soon,” Okoh shared.
Similarly, Funmilayo Ade, a resident of Nyanya, highlighted the growing financial burden on parents. “No matter how much we save, it’s never enough. We’re struggling to buy school supplies, and the fuel price increase has only made things worse.”
Ade appealed to the federal government to address the rising fuel prices, which she said are affecting the entire economy. She urged the authorities to take action to alleviate the hardship faced by Nigerian families.
