The University of Lagos (UNILAG) took a significant step towards addressing its student accommodation deficit as the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) facilitated a crucial meeting between the university management and private investors on Monday, June 2, 2025.
Held at the Senate Chambers, the meeting brought together key stakeholders – UNILAG (Grantor), ICRC (Regulator), and prospective investors – to review progress, align on deliverables, and recommit to the agreed timeline.
Representing the ICRC Director-General, Dr. James Akweh praised the university’s vision and resilience, assuring the commission’s full support for the project’s success.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola, FAS, OON, emphasized that the hostel development follows a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement.
“This journey began in 2023, and it is urgently needed,” she said. “With only 10,000 bed spaces for over 50,000 students, these investments are critical – and demand for accommodation will remain high.”
Acknowledging the slow regulatory processes, she urged contractors to prioritize quality and durability: “We’re building for tomorrow, not just today. Your work must stand the test of time to ensure mutual benefit.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Muyiwa Falaiye moderated the session, assuring investors of the university’s unwavering support while stressing adherence to timelines.
Also present was the immediate past Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Lucian Chukwu, who noted that the selected contractors underwent rigorous vetting with ICRC’s expertise. “The ICRC has ensured a solid foundation for this process,” he said. “UNILAG is Nigeria’s first university to pursue PPP through an unsolicited bid.”
The meeting underscores the Professor Ogunsola-led administration’s commitment to resolving student housing shortages. With sustained collaboration, UNILAG students, present and future, can anticipate improved accommodation soon.
Report: Isaiah Kumuyi
Photography: Ayo Oloyede
