Nigeria, July 13 -- In a statement made available to The News Chronicle, Obi commended the authorities for listening to widespread public outcry and reversing the policy. However, he argued that the fee hike should never have been introduced, especially at a time when millions of Nigerians are grappling with severe economic hardship.

According to him, the country should be focused on investing in basic education and reducing the growing number of out-of-school children rather than imposing additional financial burdens on struggling families.

"At a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, access to education should be expanded, not restricted. Education is a fundamental right and a public good, not a source of governmen...