Lagos Varsity set to acquire 8,272-unit hostels

Alexander Davis

For the first time in 36 years after its establishment, the students and staff of the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, are to enjoy living in hostel accommodations soon.

This is because the Lagos State Government is prepared to construct a 8,272 units of hostels on the institution’s campus in the state.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is reported to have signed a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) agreement with six private property developers, in Lagos, to deliver the project in 18 months.

According to a statement issued Saturday, December 21 by Gboyega Akosile, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the deal which would lead to the construction of six blocks of Hall of Residence, was wrapped under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) policy of the state.

Although the concessions will run for 35 years, Akosile stated it is expected that 30 per cent of the school’s 26,000 student-population will be served when finally completed and delivered in 2021.”

He said the partnership with the six private investors is strategic, because it is going to strengthen the capacity of the state government to scale up education quality and bring about improved academic performance of students.

According to him, “it will also help LASU in terms of global rating and outlook. We are using this model as a test case, which governments from other parts of the country will come and emulate.

“I believe we can deliver on this project and set a precedent that will change the course of tertiary education for good,” said the Chief Press Secretary to Governor.