The administration of the College of Nursing Science in Itigidi, Cross River State has refuted claims circulating on social media regarding allegations of financial extortion.
In a statement released by the institution’s Provost, Mrs. Ruth Ekong, the management raised concerns about the inflated sums being reported as fees for students and communicated to their parents.
Ekong pointed out that Nursing Education is regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and clarified that costs for activities such as indexing and final qualifying examinations are paid directly to the NMCN, contrary to the claims circulating.
She also noted that the tuition fees at colleges in Cross River State are the lowest in comparison to other states, where tuition can be three times higher.
The Provost dismissed the publication as baseless and misleading, asserting it was intended to tarnish the college’s reputation, and warned that any inaccuracies during the investigation could result in legal action for libel and slander.
“The General Nursing program requires clinical experiences in areas such as Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Public Health, Eye/Ear/Nose/Throat, Psychiatric care, and community settings, which necessitate student placements in Ikom, Obudu, Ugep, Calabar, etc. These healthcare facilities require fees from the College for accommodation, clinical teaching materials, and honoraria for the teaching clinicians.
“These charges are separate from the tuition fees and yet are deemed mandatory by NMCN; thus, it becomes a shared responsibility between the government and parents.
“It may surprise you to learn that Cross River State colleges have the lowest fees compared to other states, where students pay between ₦500,000 and ₦700,000. Our fees range from ₦175,000 to ₦245,000 for indigent and non-indigent students, respectively,” she elaborated.
