The Lagos State Government has announced a significant increase in boarding fees for all public secondary schools across the state. The fees, which were previously ₦35,000 per term, have now been raised to ₦100,000. This change was communicated through an official letter signed by Olufemi Asaolu, Director of Basic Education Services, Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, and addressed to all boarding school principals.

The letter, titled *‘Review of Boarding Fees in All Public Secondary Schools in Lagos State for the 2024/2025 Session’*, emphasized that no additional fees beyond the newly approved ₦100,000 should be collected by the schools. It also reaffirmed that the resumption date for the new academic session remains September 15, 2024.

“I have the directive of the Honourable Commissioner to inform all Public Boarding House schools in Lagos State that the State Government has approved the review of the boarding fee payable in all Public Boarding House schools in Lagos State. The newly approved fee is ₦100,000 only,” the letter read.

This sudden increase has caught some parents off guard. A parent, Mrs. Ayo Ogunse, confirmed that the previous boarding fee of ₦35,000 had already been paid last week before the new circular was posted. “We were surprised to receive this new fee of ₦100,000 after paying ₦35,000 last week,” she remarked.

The announcement has sparked reactions from parents and guardians, many of whom are concerned about the financial burden the fee hike will place on them.

The Lagos State Government has yet to issue further clarification on the rationale behind the significant increase in fees, leaving parents and stakeholders awaiting more details.