The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of students, stating that every decision taken by the institution is guided by the need to protect their interests and ensure a conducive learning environment.
The assurance came during a meeting between the University management and officials of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Kwara State Axis, following public concerns over the recent review of accommodation fees in privately owned hostels located within the University campus.
The meeting was convened after a viral social media report triggered widespread reactions from students and members of the public over the increase in hostel accommodation charges.
According to a statement issued by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, the NANS delegation, led by its Chairman, Comrade Yusuf Abdulquadir Eleburuke, visited the institution to obtain first-hand information on the matter and provide students, parents and the public with verified facts.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alex Morenikeji Akanmu, commended NANS for choosing dialogue over speculation in addressing students’ concerns.
Dr. Akanmu clarified that the hostels affected by the fee review are privately owned facilities situated within the University’s premises and not properties owned by the institution. He explained that although the University does not own the hostels, it regulates their operations to ensure compliance with approved standards and protect students’ interests.
Addressing the fee adjustment, the Acting Dean disclosed that accommodation charges are reviewed after every three academic sessions. He said the previous approved rates were ₦196,000 for two-person rooms, ₦180,000 for three-person rooms and ₦157,000 for four-person rooms.
According to him, hostel operators had initially proposed an increase of almost 100 per cent, a request the University management rejected. He said the Vice-Chancellor directed negotiations with the operators to prevent an excessive financial burden on students.
Following extensive discussions that considered prevailing economic conditions, including inflation and rising maintenance costs, the parties agreed on a 30 per cent increase. Under the new arrangement, accommodation fees were approved at ₦255,000 for two-person rooms, ₦234,000 for three-person rooms and ₦204,000 for four-person rooms.
Dr. Akanmu added that the approval was conditional on hostel operators upgrading facilities through renovations and the provision of reliable alternative power sources, particularly solar energy systems, to improve the quality of accommodation.
He also clarified that other payments made during hostel allocation should not be mistaken for accommodation fees. According to him, the caution fee remains refundable where no damage is recorded, while the utility charge of ₦36,400 covers essential services provided throughout the academic session.
Reacting after the meeting, the NANS Kwara State Axis expressed satisfaction with the explanations provided by the University management, commending the Vice-Chancellor, the Student Affairs Division and other officials for prioritising students’ welfare during negotiations with private hostel operators.
The student body also praised the University’s transparency and open-door policy, describing the engagement as a demonstration of responsible institutional leadership.
NANS further called on private investors to partner with the University in expanding hostel infrastructure to increase accommodation capacity, improve service delivery and encourage healthy competition capable of making student housing more affordable.
The association also urged bloggers, media organisations and public commentators to verify information with relevant authorities before publishing reports capable of generating unnecessary anxiety among students. It, however, acknowledged that the viral reports prompted constructive engagement and enhanced public understanding of the issue.
Reaffirming its commitment to student advocacy, NANS said it would continue to engage institutional authorities and other stakeholders through dialogue and evidence-based advocacy to promote the welfare of students across Kwara State.
