Zaria, Kaduna State - November 2024
The usually bustling campus of the Federal College of Education, Zaria, is now rife with frustration and discontent as students, lecturers, and staff alike feel the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.
For weeks, the college community has struggled with fuel scarcity and soaring prices. Lectures have been canceled, assignments delayed, and daily commutes turned into ordeals.
"I spend over two hours daily searching for fuel," said Aisha Mohammed, a 300-level student. "It's affecting my studies and my part-time job."
The crisis has also strained the college’s infrastructure. Generators, once a reliable backup, now consume costly fuel, further taxing the institution’s finances.
"We're doing our best to manage the situation," said Dr. Aliyu Mohammed, the college’s Provost. "But it's becoming increasingly challenging."
Students Protest
On February 10, hundreds of students took to the streets, protesting the fuel scarcity and its impact on their education. Chanting slogans and holding placards, they called for government action.
"We won’t tolerate this anymore!" shouted Abdulrahman Yusuf, a Students' Union member. "We need fuel to learn!"
Lecturers’ Plea
The college’s Academic Staff Union (ASUU) chapter has also appealed for government intervention.
"The fuel subsidy crisis is crippling our education system," said Dr. Hafsat Abdullahi, ASUU Chairperson. "We urge the government to find a lasting solution."
Community Impact
Local businesses and residents have also felt the strain. Transport fares have soared, and traders struggle to move goods.
"This fuel scarcity is killing us," said Alhaji Sani, a local trader. "We can’t afford to transport our goods." As the Federal College of Education, Zaria, struggles to cope, the community continues to demand urgent government action.
"We need relief," said Aisha Mohammed. "We need fuel to learn, to work, and to live."
Fact Box
75% of students rely on public transport.
50% of lecturers use generators for teaching.
The college spends N500,000 monthly on fuel.
Source
Federal College of Education, Zaria
Academic Staff Union (ASUU)
Students’ Union Government
Local news outlets (e.g., The Punch, Vanguard)