UNILESA Approves ₦50,000 Hostel Fee Reduction After Dialogue With Student Leaders

The management of the University of Ilesa (UNILESA), Osun State, has approved a ₦50,000 reduction in hostel accommodation fees following strong advocacy by student leaders and stakeholders.

The development came after a high-level engagement between the institution’s management and a coalition comprising the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest, the National Association of University Students (NAUS) Osun State and National bodies, the National Association of Osun State Students (NAOSS) in the University of Ilesa, and other civil society groups.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, by Comrade Oyetunmbi Abiola Tayo (Bismart), Director of Campus Affairs II, NANS Southwest, the coalition described the fee reduction as a major victory for student welfare and a demonstration of the power of collective advocacy.

According to the statement, the ₦50,000 concession provides immediate financial relief to students and their families, many of whom had expressed concern over the rising cost of accommodation.

The student leaders also commended UNILESA management for its responsiveness and commitment to the welfare of the university community.

Beyond the fee reduction, the university’s management has officially recognized the NAUS body and pledged to include student representatives in its Town-Gown Committee, a platform responsible for university-community relations.

The management also promised to intensify efforts to address off-campus safety challenges and other welfare concerns raised during the meeting.

However, the coalition noted that the battle for affordable housing in Ilesa is far from over. It called for urgent intervention by the Osun State House of Assembly and His Imperial Majesty, the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, to address the growing crisis of high off-campus rent and exploitative agency fees.

The students urged the state government to fast-track the passage of a Rent Control (Real Estate Regulation) Bill to protect students and residents from unfair housing practices.

While celebrating the UNILESA victory, the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the struggle until all student housing and welfare demands are met.

“Aluta Continua, Victoria Ascerta,” the statement concluded.