Unilorin assures students on hostel fees, approves 30% hike after rejecting 100% rise

The University of Ilorin has assured students that it will shield them from exorbitant accommodation fees. The institution recently rejected a proposal from private hostel operators seeking a nearly 100% increase in fees. Following negotiations, the university approved a more modest 30% rise.

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The decision of NANS to seek clarification directly from the University instead of relying on speculation is commendable and reflects a responsible approach to addressing issues affecting students.

The university's stance was communicated during a meeting with officials from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Kwara State Axis. This meeting addressed concerns sparked by a viral social media post regarding recent fee adjustments in privately owned hostels on campus. The university's Director of Corporate Affairs, Kunle Akogun, stated that the NANS delegation sought accurate information on the fee review.

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Although these hostels are privately owned, the University regulates their operations to ensure they meet approved standards and that the interests of students are adequately protected.

Alex Akanmu, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, commended NANS for pursuing dialogue. He explained that the affected hostels are privately owned but operate under university regulation to ensure student interests are protected. While fees are typically reviewed every three academic sessions, the operators' initial request was deemed excessive by the university management.

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The Vice-Chancellor and the University management considered the initial proposal excessive and immediately rejected it. Our priority has always been to ensure that students are not subjected to unnecessary financial hardship.

After considering economic factors like inflation and rising maintenance costs, the university and operators reached a compromise. The new fees will see two-person rooms increase from ₦196,000 to ₦255,000, three-person rooms from ₦180,000 to ₦234,000, and four-person rooms from ₦157,000 to ₦204,000. The university emphasized its priority is to prevent undue financial hardship for students.

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After extensive negotiations, both parties reached a compromise with a 30 per cent increase.