Delegates from the Nigerian High Commission in London are set to meet with Teesside University officials to address the treatment of Nigerian students ordered to leave the UK after failing to meet tuition repayments. The situation has been described as a “serious diplomatic issue” after several students were involuntarily withdrawn from their courses, causing significant distress and, in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
Nigeria has become a significant market for UK university recruitment, with over 44,000 Nigerian students enrolled in UK institutions in 2021-22. The current situation has raised concerns that prospective students may now seek education opportunities elsewhere.
Yemi Soile, founder and head coordinator of the Nigerian Students’ Union UK, criticized Teesside University for neglecting its duty of care. “Students were not supported. Their mental health and wellbeing were not considered,” Soile stated. He highlighted that about 60 students fell behind on tuition payments due to a currency crash that devalued their savings.
Soile also claimed students were misled about repayment terms, believing fees could be spread over seven instalments, only to face a new three-instalment plan starting in the 2023-24 academic year. One student even sold his house in Nigeria to pay debts, while others, after being removed from their courses, were given 60 days to leave the UK by UK Visas and Immigration.
Teesside University has apologized, offering mental health support and individual meetings with specialist staff to affected students. “Where possible, solutions have been found to support them to continue or complete their studies,” a university spokesperson said. However, 21 students still face unresolved cases and may have to return to Nigeria to complete their studies remotely.
The university is in dialogue with Nigerian agencies and welcomes a meeting with the Nigerian High Commission. “Students who fail to make their agreed tuition payments are sent multiple communications and offered support around revised payment plans, with withdrawal being a last resort,” the spokesperson added.
Universities UK (UUK), representing 142 institutions, acknowledged that many Nigerian students are struggling due to the currency crisis. Around 1,000 students at the University of Sussex from Nigeria, Iran, and other financially affected countries have been warned they may not graduate or re-register if they fail to settle outstanding debts. Sussex University has stated that no students will be removed this academic year due to unpaid debts, with a review scheduled for 31 May.
A UUK spokesperson emphasized that universities aim to assist students by offering flexible payment schedules, deferrals, or refunds. However, visa and immigration rules may necessitate withdrawing sponsorship if students cannot complete their studies, although this is always a last resort.
For those in crisis, Samaritans and other international helplines provide support.