Cost of Schooling in Nigeria

The total expenditures for primary and junior secondary school (JSS) students in 2015 averaged 26,408 naira. Per pupil household expenditures on education specifically were 15,585 naira. Regional variations in per pupil household expenditures are evident, with the North and South zones exhibiting the highest and lowest expenditures, respectively. In the North zone, expenditures ranged from 10,871 naira for primary students to 38,694 naira for JSS students. In contrast, the South zone had lower expenditures, ranging from 6,970 naira for primary students to 30,390 naira for JSS students. School type also influences per pupil household expenditures, with private schools exhibiting significantly higher expenditures than government schools. In 2015, private schools spent an average of 34,786 naira for primary students and 51,713 naira for JSS students, while government schools spent 6,425 naira for primary students and 16,811 naira for JSS students. Wealth quintiles also play a crucial role in determining per pupil household expenditures, with higher quintiles exhibiting significantly higher expenditures. In 2015, the lowest wealth quintile spent an average of 3,885 naira for primary students and 5,517 naira for JSS students, while the highest wealth quintile spent 45,492 naira for primary students and 45,492 naira for JSS students. Residence also affects per pupil household expenditures, with urban households spending more than rural households. In 2015, urban households spent an average of 31,687 naira for primary students and 19,346 naira for JSS students, while rural households spent 23,207 naira for primary students and 8,797 naira for JSS students. Item-specific expenditures, such as uniforms, books, food, and PTA fees, also vary by school type. In 2015, government schools spent an average of 10 naira on uniforms and clothing, while private schools spent 20 naira. Books and supplies were also a significant expenditure for both government and private schools, with an average of 30 naira and 40 naira, respectively.