The Division of Student Affairs (DSA) at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has issued a new directive concerning students interested in extending their stay in the university’s halls of residence. In an official release, the DSA outlined the procedures, conditions, and payment requirements for eligible students. The announcement has, however, sparked debate among student leaders who are calling for a review of the proposed fee.
According to the release, male students are instructed to proceed to Awolowo Hall of Residence, while female students are directed to Moremi Hall of Residence to check their names on the approved list for extension of stay. The DSA emphasized that the list is final and only those whose names appear are qualified to benefit from the arrangement.
The DSA further clarified that the opportunity is strictly for students who had accommodation in any of the university’s halls during the 2023/2024 academic session. In other words, new applicants or students who were not officially allocated spaces in the halls during the last session are not eligible. This restriction, according to the division, is meant to ensure fairness and proper management of the facilities.
Another critical requirement in the release is the payment of a fee of ₦10,000. The directive specifies that this payment must be made through Remita, after which students are to submit the University Receipt to their respective hall management for confirmation. The DSA stated that this step is mandatory before approval can be granted for extended stay in the halls.
The announcement comes at a time when many students are preparing for various academic engagements, including research projects, industrial training, and revision for upcoming examinations. For such students, continued access to on-campus accommodation is considered crucial for convenience, safety, and academic productivity.
However, the directive has not gone without criticism. On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Hall Executives representing all the halls of residence wrote an open letter addressed to the Division of Student Affairs. The letter was signed by student representatives who described the policy as “unfair” and “financially burdensome.”
In their letter, the executives argued that the policy excludes students without prior accommodation, many of whom may still have legitimate academic reasons to remain on campus. They pointed out that such exclusions could cause unnecessary hardship for students who rely on the university environment to complete their academic obligations.
The Hall Executives also questioned the ₦10,000 charge for the extension of stay, noting that the amount is “considerably high for a short-term arrangement.” They emphasized that many students are already struggling with the rising cost of living, increased transportation fares, and general economic hardship in the country.
The student leaders appealed for “a more inclusive and considerate arrangement” that would both acknowledge the financial realities of students and still allow the university to cover the cost of maintaining its facilities. They called for a reduction of the proposed fee to a more affordable level, suggesting that such a move would demonstrate the university’s commitment to student welfare.
Despite their criticism, the Hall Executives noted that they fully understand the university’s responsibility to maintain facilities and cover operational costs. They stressed that their appeal is not to undermine the management’s authority but to ensure that policies are designed with empathy and fairness to students.
In addition, the student leaders expressed their willingness to engage in dialogue with the university authorities. They stated that a review of the directive, if undertaken, would not only ease students’ financial strain but also foster trust and mutual respect between the student body and the management.
The open letter concluded by urging the Division of Student Affairs to prioritize consultation with stakeholders before implementing policies that directly affect students. The executives argued that participatory decision-making is essential in maintaining a harmonious relationship within the campus community.
As of press time, the Division of Student Affairs has yet to issue a formal response to the concerns raised by the Hall Executives. Students across the campus are anxiously awaiting further clarification, hoping that the university management will consider a review that balances institutional needs with student welfare.
