UNILORIN Explains Reasons Behind Private Hostel Fee Hike

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Kwara State Axis, has met with the management of the University of Ilorin over concerns surrounding the recent increase in accommodation fees for privately owned hostels located within the university.

The meeting, led by the Chairman of NANS Kwara, Comrade Yusuf Abdulquadir Eleburuke, followed widespread reactions to a viral social media report alleging a sharp hike in hostel fees. According to the association, the visit was aimed at obtaining accurate information directly from the university and providing students, parents, and the public with verified details.

The delegation was received on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), by the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alex Morenikeji Akanmu.

During the engagement, Dr. Akanmu commended the student body for choosing dialogue over speculation, describing the approach as responsible and in the best interest of students. He also reiterated the university's commitment to maintaining an open-door policy on issues affecting students' welfare.

Presenting students' concerns, NANS referenced the viral report published by Ajibare Talks and requested clarification on the previous accommodation fees, the reasons for the recent review, and the university's role in regulating privately owned hostels operating within the campus.

Responding, the Dean explained that although the hostels are privately owned, they operate within the university environment and are subject to institutional regulation to ensure quality standards and protect students' interests.

He disclosed that accommodation fees are reviewed after every three academic sessions. According to him, the previous approved rates stood at ₦196,000 for two-man rooms, ₦180,000 for three-man rooms, and ₦157,000 for four-man rooms.

Dr. Akanmu further revealed that hostel operators initially proposed an increase of nearly 100 percent. However, he said the Vice-Chancellor and the university management rejected the proposal and entered negotiations with the operators to ensure students were not subjected to excessive financial pressure.

While acknowledging rising inflation and increasing maintenance costs, the university insisted that any adjustment must remain moderate and reflect the realities faced by students.

As part of the agreement, the university directed hostel operators to renovate their facilities and provide alternative power sources, including solar energy systems, to improve the standard of accommodation.

Following the negotiations, both parties agreed on a 30 percent increase, with the new accommodation fees approved as ₦255,000 for two-man rooms, ₦234,000 for three-man rooms, and ₦204,000 for four-man rooms.

The Dean also clarified that some charges paid during hostel allocation are separate from accommodation fees. He explained that the caution fee remains refundable if no damage is recorded, while the utility fee of ₦36,400 covers essential services throughout the academic session.

At the end of the meeting, NANS Kwara expressed satisfaction with the explanations provided by the university management and commended the Vice-Chancellor, the Dean of Student Affairs, and other officials for prioritising students' welfare during negotiations with hostel operators.

The association also applauded the hostel operators for embracing dialogue and reaching a compromise, while encouraging more private investors to partner with the university in expanding quality hostel accommodation to improve competition and affordability.

NANS further urged bloggers and media organisations to verify information with appropriate authorities before publishing reports capable of causing unnecessary panic. It, however, acknowledged Ajibare Talks for drawing public attention to the issue, noting that the report ultimately encouraged constructive engagement and greater transparency.