Usama OLAGUNJUThe National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has threatened to shutdown the University of Lagos (UNILAG) if management of the institution remains rigid in its stance over fee increment.
NANS said it will not tolerate exploitative increments, noting that If UNILAG proceeds with implementing the fee hike, it will take actions.
A statement by NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, said NANS will convene a National Congress on UNILAG’s campus, which will not disband until Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the institution is reinstated and genuine fee review process implemented
According to him, the Congress will serve as a platform for students across Nigeria to come together and demand fair treatment, commitment to affordable and quality education.
He maintained that cost of education in Nigeria cannot continue to escalate unchecked, particularly when students receive little to no improvement in facilities or services, as demonstrated by the ongoing issues with basic amenities on campus.
According to him: “We call on UNILAG management to engage in transparent dialogue and a responsible approach that prioritizes students’ welfare and academic success. Anything less will be met with united resistance from the entire student body.
“We also urge all stakeholders to remember that education is a right, not a privilege. We remain resolute in our mission to ensure that the voices of Nigerian students are heard, and that access to education remains equitable and fair.“
In response to the resolutions reached at the recent meeting between the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management and student representatives, we categorically deny any agreement to an annual upward review of student fees.
“The claim that student representatives accepted this proposal is false, and we strongly denounce any attempt to use this misinformation to justify fee increases that burden students and their families.
“We stand firmly with UNILAG students in opposing these imposed hikes in school and hostel fees. The claim of financial necessity cannot and must not be used to exploit students, especially when the increase significantly affects access to education for thousands of Nigerian youths.
“The management’s suggestion that students uncomfortable with hostel fees should opt for off-campus accommodation is not only insensitive but disregards the financial strain already faced by students.”
