Former King’s College Principals Demand Suspension of FG Concession to KCOBA

Former principals of King’s College, Lagos, have rejected the Federal Government’s concession of the school to KCOBA and called for its suspension.

The Forum of Former Principals of King’s College said the government should retain ownership, funding and administrative responsibility for the school while allowing KCOBA and other stakeholders to support its development.

The forum made the position known in a statement signed by seven former principals and acting principals. They argued that transferring the day-to-day running, funding and infrastructure development of the college to a private body could weaken its public character and affect access for students from less-privileged families.

According to the former principals, the government should first develop a comprehensive Development Master Plan for the institution. The plan, they said, should address infrastructure, classrooms, laboratories, hostels, staff welfare, teaching resources, utilities, healthcare and preservation of the school’s historic buildings and traditions.

They also recommended clear funding arrangements, implementation timelines, independent audits, transparent procurement and regular public reporting.

The forum acknowledged the contributions of KCOBA, the Parent-Teacher Association, philanthropists and other stakeholders to the development of King’s College. However, it stressed that supporting the school should not be confused with taking over its administration.

The former principals proposed a partnership model in which KCOBA and other organisations could contribute through a transparent development fund and advisory council while the Federal Government retains full public ownership and administrative responsibility.

They also warned that private control could potentially lead to higher fees, reduced access for children from low-income families and a gradual loss of the college’s national and inclusive character.

The former principals therefore called for the immediate suspension of the concession pending broader stakeholder consultation and an independent review.

The development comes after an approximately two-week dispute over the concession. The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) on Wednesday suspended its nationwide strike by staff of Federal Unity Colleges, allowing the schools to reopen while a seven-member Federal Government committee reviews the King’s College concession document.