Lagos Govt Stands Firm on Boarding Fee Hike Amid Parents’ Protest

The Lagos State Government has confirmed that there will be no reversal of the recent increase in boarding fees for its model colleges, despite protests from parents over the weekend.

Parents of students attending these schools staged demonstrations, expressing frustration over the hike from N35,000 to N100,000 per term, citing the current economic challenges and rising costs of living as major concerns.

 According to Ganiu Lawal, Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the fee adjustment is necessary to ensure the well-being and proper care of students while in school.

“This was not an easy decision, but the welfare of the children is a priority. With rising energy, food, and maintenance costs, the N35,000 fee is no longer realistic,” he said.

Lawal also pointed out that the fees are primarily used for feeding and maintaining the students’ hostels.

 The new fee structure, which takes effect in the 2024/2025 academic session, comes at a time when many families are struggling due to the country’s high inflation rate and fuel price hikes.

Parents have expressed concern that the increase is too steep, given that salaries have not risen to match the current economic crisis.

In spite of these concerns, the state government has urged parents to understand that the fee hike is for the betterment of the students’ overall health and education.