Fuel Subsidy Removal and the Economic Burden on Students in Akwa Ibom State University

Abstract

The study examines the effect of fuel subsidy removal on the welfare of students at Akwa Ibom State University, Nigeria, with particular emphasis on two dimensions: the impact of increasing transportation costs and the cost of printing academic materials on students limited financial resources. The removal of fuel subsidy led to a significant rise in petroleum prices, thereby intensifying economic pressures on students. Guided by the economic shock theory, the study adopted a quantitative approach and employed a descriptive survey design. A sample of 384 university students was selected from a population of 9,660 using the Taro Yamane formula and weighted sampling technique across faculties. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test of independence. Findings revealed that the increase in transportation costs had a significant adverse effect on students' mobility, while the rising cost of printing academic materials further strained their financial resources. These challenges collectively undermined students' ability to meet academic demands. The study recommends that the university, in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Government, implement subsidized transportation services and consider establishing a support mechanism to reduce the cost burden of printing academic materials for students.