COOU Students Protest Against ₦15,000 Portal Maintenance Fee
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) has introduced a new ₦15,000 “portal/app maintenance” fee per student per session, sparking backlash.
Background on COOU
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), formerly known as Anambra State University (ANSU), is located in Anambra State, South-East Nigeria. The institution has campuses in Uli, Igbariam, and Awka, serving tens of thousands of students across undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
In recent years, Nigerian public universities have faced rising costs, with students often bearing the burden through increased fees. COOU’s new policy adds to this trend, introducing a mandatory ₦15,000 charge for a student portal or school app.
The Real Thing
Students are required to pay ₦15,000 per session for “app maintenance.” And with an estimated student population of 20,000–22,000, the university could generate ₦300 million or more annually from this fee alone.
The portal is presented as essential for accessing student services, including registration, payments, and academic records.
The announcement has triggered widespread criticism:
Social Media Outcry: Between April 10 and 15, 2026, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Nairaland, and Facebook were flooded with posts from students expressing frustration.
Concerns Raised: Many argue the fee is excessive for what is essentially software upkeep. Students question why such costs are not absorbed into existing tuition or service charges.
Transparency Issues: Critics demand clarity on how the ₦300 million will be used, fearing mismanagement or unnecessary financial pressure.
The backlash is still fresh, and students are awaiting official clarifications. Possible developments include:
Student Union Response: Advocacy for waivers, reductions, or alternatives.
Clear Communication: Detailed breakdown of how the funds will be used.
Policy Adjustments: Depending on pressure, management may reconsider or restructure the fee.
The ₦15,000 portal fee at COOU highlights the growing tension between university administrations and students over rising costs. While the university argues the fee supports digital infrastructure, students see it as an unnecessary burden. With over ₦300 million at stake annually, transparency and accountability will be critical in determining whether this policy is accepted or resisted further.
