Lagos State University, on Friday, 1st May 2026, took a significant step towards addressing student accommodation challenges with the groundbreaking of a 1,500 bed-space hostel at the main campus, Ojo.
The project, sited within the University’s hostel arena, forms part of a broader package of Federal Government-backed infrastructural interventions aimed at strengthening capacity in what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s largest conventional university. Other ongoing and proposed Federal Government-backed developments include a 15MW Independent Power Project (IPP), a 3,000-seat main auditorium, a new Faculty of Engineering building at Epe Campus, and the deployment of tricycles to ease campus mobility.
The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji ALAUSA, CON, officials of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), representatives of the private sector, traditional rulers, members of the University Management, staff, and students.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor Ibiyemi OLATUNJI-BELLO, mni, NPOM, described the project as a major milestone in the University’s infrastructural development drive. She expressed profound appreciation to the Honourable Minister for his unwavering support and leadership.
Her words: “Your presence here today is not only deeply appreciated; it is a powerful testament to your unwavering support for Lagos State University. Your consistent commitment to prioritising the interests of LASU continues to inspire confidence and progress.”
The Vice-Chancellor also commended TETFund for its sustained interventions, noting that LASU has benefited from several landmark projects on campus. She described the 1,500-bed hostel as a timely addition that will ease accommodation pressure while improving the overall student experience through a safe, modern, and conducive living environment.
Distinguished Professor OLATUNJI-BELLO further highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, which is being delivered through a Public-Private Partnership involving LASU, TETFund, and Integrated Projects Limited. She urged all stakeholders to remain committed to timely delivery, stressing the importance of quality and adherence to standards.
In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji ALAUSA, said the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed TINUBU's desire to place priority on student welfare and education. He disclosed that TETFund is committing over ₦200 billion in 2026 towards hostel development across tertiary institutions, with LASU’s project forming a key part of that intervention.
According to the Minister, the 1,500-bed facility will be equipped with modern amenities, including a gym, games room, library, supermarket, canteen, and restaurant, designed to meet international standards and ensure maximum comfort for students.
He noted that with a student population of about 85,000, of which nearly 30,000 require accommodation, LASU faces significant housing demand, with only about 7,000 existing bed spaces. He described the new hostel as a critical step towards bridging that gap.
Dr ALAUSA also announced additional interventions for the University, including the construction of an 11MW Independent Power Project at the Ojo campus and a 4MW facility at Epe, bringing the total power supply capacity to 15MW. He added that the University would also benefit from a new 3,000-seat main auditorium, a Faculty of Engineering building, and tricycles to enhance campus mobility.
His words: “It is about your welfare – providing the most conducive environment for your learning. When you have leadership that believes in your future, you must also believe in your country.”
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Integrated Projects Limited, Arc. Olayinka KUSEMIJU, emphasised the importance of on-campus accommodation in fostering community spirit and long-term relationships among students. He commended the Federal Government’s intervention and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality project.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon Tolani SULE, described the project as evidence of strong collaboration between the Federal and State Governments. He noted that the planned power project would significantly reduce the University’s monthly electricity expenditure, which currently exceeds ₦200 million, thereby easing financial pressure on the institution.
In his goodwill message, the Olojo of Ojo, HRM Oba Ganiyu Adeniyi RUFAI, commended the Vice-Chancellor for the visible transformation within the University and prayed for continued success in her leadership.
Speaking on behalf of students, the President of the Lagos State University Students’ Union (LASUSU), Comrade Akorede PETER, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and University Management, describing the project as a responsive and forward-thinking initiative that reflects a commitment to student welfare.
He noted that the hostel development represents a meaningful partnership between government, University authorities, and students in driving sustainable progress.
The project, valued at approximately ₦4 billion, is being funded through a Public-Private Partnership arrangement, with TETFund contributing ₦1 billion and the private sector partner providing ₦3 billion.
With the sod turned, stakeholders expressed optimism that the project would be delivered on schedule and will significantly enhance the quality of campus life at Lagos State University.
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