The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has voiced strong disapproval of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management’s recent proposal to increase annual fees, following a meeting with student representatives. In a statement issued by NANS Senate President, Senator Akinteye Afeez Babatunde, the association firmly denied any agreement on the fee hikes, calling claims of student consent misleading and an attempt to impose financial strain on students and their families. NANS showed solidarity with UNILAG students and criticized the recent increases in both tuition and hostel fees.

The students’ organization argued that financial necessity does not justify burdening students, especially when such hikes threaten educational accessibility for countless young Nigerians. They specifically took issue with the university’s suggestion that dissatisfied students should seek off-campus housing, labeling this advice as insensitive given the financial challenges many face.

In response to the fee increases, NANS announced plans to hold a National Congress on the UNILAG campus, aimed at uniting students from across Nigeria to collectively resist the fee hikes. This congress will continue until the reinstatement of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) and the establishment of a genuine review process for the fees. NANS reaffirmed its commitment to affordable and quality education, warning that if UNILAG persists with the proposed hikes, they are ready to consider drastic measures, including a potential permanent shutdown of the university.

The association urged UNILAG management to engage in open dialogue that prioritizes the welfare and academic success of students. NANS stressed that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and vowed to amplify the voices of Nigerian students while ensuring equitable access to education for all.