The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on January 14, 2026, in opposition to recent tax reforms it says could undermine funding for tertiary education.
In a statement, NANS said the newly enacted Nigeria Tax Act abolishes the Tertiary Education Tax and replaces it with a “Development Levy.” According to the student body, the new framework will see allocations to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) gradually reduced until they reach zero by 2030, with all proceeds redirected to the Student Education Loan Fund.
Student leaders warned that the policy shift would weaken funding for public universities and colleges, while increasing the debt burden on graduates. They described the reforms as a violation of constitutional provisions and a breach of public trust.
The planned protest will also focus on proposed increases in Value Added Tax (VAT), which is set to rise from 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent in 2025 and further to 12.5 per cent in 2026. NANS argued that higher taxes, coupled with inflation and stagnant incomes, could force institutions to raise tuition fees.
A spokesperson for the association said students would no longer remain silent as policies that affect their future are implemented, stressing that the January 14 demonstration would be peaceful but resolute. The group called on the federal government to reconsider the reforms and place greater emphasis on student welfare and the sustainability of tertiary institutions.
The nationwide action is expected to draw participation from students across the country, with demonstrations planned in major cities.
