The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has denied reaching any agreement with the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management regarding an annual increase in tuition and hostel accommodation fees.

In a statement signed by NANS Senate President, Afeez Akinteye, on Friday, the student body refuted claims that student representatives had accepted the proposal for fee increases.

NANS emphasized its opposition to any hike in tuition and accommodation fees at UNILAG.

NANS also issued a warning, threatening to convene a National Congress on the UNILAG campus if the university management proceeds with the fee hike. The statement urged the university to engage in transparent dialogue and adopt an approach that prioritizes student welfare and academic success.

Akinteye clarified NANS?s stance: ?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 be used to exploit students, especially when these increases significantly affect access to education for thousands of Nigerian youths.?

The statement also criticized management?s suggestion for students dissatisfied with hostel fees to seek off-campus accommodation, calling it insensitive to students? financial constraints.

?If UNILAG proceeds with implementing the fee hike, we will convene a National Congress on UNILAG?s campus, which will remain until the Students? Union Government (SUG) is reinstated and a genuine fee review process is adopted,? Akinteye warned.

?We are prepared to shut down the institution if the administration remains unyielding. Education costs cannot continue to escalate without a corresponding improvement in campus facilities or services,? he added.

NANS concluded with a call for all stakeholders to remember that education is a right, not a privilege, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring Nigerian students have fair and affordable access to education. (Nigerian Tribune)

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