The Lagos State Government has announced an inevitable increase in boarding fees across its model colleges, highlighting that this adjustment is necessary to ensure the welfare of the students.
Ganiu Lawal, the Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, made this known in a statement on Monday.
According to Mr. Lawal, the N35,000 boarding fee that has been in place since 2021 is no longer sustainable for 2024 and beyond.
As such, the state government has approved a revised fee of N100,000, which will take effect from the 2024/2025 academic session starting on September 15, 2024.
Mr. Lawal emphasized that while only a small portion—over one percent—of the student population in public schools is enrolled in boarding facilities, this fee adjustment was necessary due to rising costs associated with feeding, janitorial services, and other essential needs for the students’ welfare.
“This was not an easy decision, but the welfare of the children is a priority for the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Lagos State Government,” Mr. Lawal said, addressing concerns from parents.
He stressed that the enrollment in boarding schools is an individual choice for parents, and they are expected to cover the related fees.
The newly revised fee, payable each term, covers costs such as feeding, fuel for energy, and cooking gas, all of which are essential for the daily operation of the boarding schools.
Despite the increase, Mr. Lawal assured parents that the Lagos State Government remains committed to providing free education infrastructure, tuition, technology support, and security, in addition to covering WAEC examination fees for all public school students.
Acknowledging concerns from parents, Mr. Lawal explained that the increase is modest compared to boarding fees in other federal and state schools across Nigeria.
He emphasized that nutritious food plays a critical role in both physical growth and mental development, ensuring that students remain healthy and mentally alert.
He also called for understanding and cooperation from all stakeholders, reminding parents that the government takes responsibility for the health and well-being of students while in school.
Mr. Lawal reiterated that the boarding fee increase was necessary to continue providing quality education and care for students.
Currently, Lagos State offers free education across 1,021 primary schools, 369 junior secondary schools, and 329 senior secondary schools, including 32 model colleges, with the exception of Vetland Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, which operate as day schools.
