The Presidency has denied that there has been a hike in the tuition fee payable in federal universities.
It maintained that contrary to reports, what has happened was an increase in discretionary charges by each university for hostel accommodation, registration, laboratory and other charges.
These clarifications are contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to the President, (Special Duties, Communications & Strategy).
It said while the institutions have explained the rationale behind the increase, President Bola Tinubu remains committed to his promise of ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of their economic status.
The Presidency maintained that the implementation of the Student Loans scheme recently signed into law by the president will go into implementation ahead of the next academic session in September.
Last week, some tertiary institutions including the University of Lagos (UNILAG) hiked their fees for new and returning undergraduate students.
UNILAG especially hinged the move on what it described as the “prevailing economic realities”.
“After careful deliberations with its stakeholders (students, parents/guardians, staff unions, alumni among others), the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Management has reviewed the obligatory fees (mandatory charges for an academic session/year) of new and returning undergraduate students of the University,” the school explained.
“The adjustment in fees which will take effect from the 1st Semester, 2023/2024 Academic Session, is in view of the prevailing economic realities and the need for the University to be able to meet its obligations to its students, staff, and municipal service providers among others.
“It is also pertinent to note that the University has not increased its obligatory fees in recent years. Management, therefore, seeks the kind understanding and support of students and other stakeholders with the assurance of its commitment towards ensuring that students get the best learning experience.”
