The administration of the College of Nursing Science in Itigidi, Cross River State, has strongly denied allegations of financial extortion, stating that the claims are misleading and unfounded. The accusations surfaced recently, suggesting that the institution was inflating fees and charging students excessively, causing concern among parents and the public.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Provost of the College, Ruth Ekong, clarified that the nursing school’s financial practices are transparent and regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
“The fees associated with activities like indexing and final qualifying examinations are paid directly to the NMCN,” Ekong explained, dismissing the social media rumors that claimed otherwise.
Ekong emphasized that the College’s fees are among the lowest in the country, comparing them to those in other states where tuition can be three times higher.
“It may interest you to know that Cross River State Colleges charge the least fees compared to other states, whose students pay between N500,000 and N700,000. We still struggle between N175,000 and N245,000 only for indigents and non-indigents respectively,” she said.
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The Provost addressed specific concerns about the costs involved in the nursing program. She explained that the General Nursing curriculum requires extensive clinical experiences in various specialties such as Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Public Health, Psychiatric care, and more. These clinical postings, which take place in health facilities across the state, including Ikom, Obudu, Ugep, and Calabar, involve additional expenses for the College.
“These health facilities demand money from the College for accommodation, clinical teaching materials, and honorarium for the teacher clinicians,” Ekong noted.
These costs are not included in the tuition fees but are mandatory, according to NMCN requirements.
The institution also expressed concern that the allegations aimed to tarnish the College’s reputation. Ekong warned that any further misrepresentation could lead to legal action for libel and slander, underscoring the seriousness with which the administration views the situation.
“This publication is unfounded and misleading. It seems to be an attempt to damage the college’s reputation, and we will not hesitate to pursue legal action if necessary,” she said.