Kogi Poly Rector Reduces Hostel Fees in Line with Governor Ododo's Welfare Drive

The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof. Sanusi Avidime, has approved a reduction in hostel fees as part of efforts to ease the financial burden on students amid rising accommodation costs in Lokoja.

Lokoja, home to the fast-growing Polytechnic, has witnessed sharp increases in house rents, with reports indicating over 300 percent rise in student-dominated areas. The development has left many families, workers and students struggling to cope, prompting protests and intervention moves by the Kogi State House of Assembly.

The administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has also been exploring housing interventions, including proposed housing estates, to cushion the effect of rising accommodation costs.

Against this backdrop, Prof. Avidime's decision to reduce hostel fees has been described as a compassionate and timely intervention. At a time when an upward review of charges could have been considered, the Rector chose to lower the existing fee, prioritising student welfare over revenue.

The Polytechnic already provides hostel accommodation at relatively low cost, and the further reduction by N5,000 demonstrates a deliberate effort to respond to current economic realities.

Beyond the fee reduction, the institution under Prof. Avidime is facilitating construction of a twin hostel project with capacity for over 500 students. The project, which is progressing rapidly, is expected to expand accommodation capacity and reduce dependence on expensive private housing around the Polytechnic.

Observers also note the Rector's personal disposition to service, including his decision not to prioritise renovation of the official residence designated for his accommodation, while continuing to commute and maintain an open-door approach to staff, students and stakeholders despite demanding administrative schedules.

The intervention has been seen as aligning with the welfare-oriented policies of the state government and a step towards improving student well-being and institutional development at Kogi State Polytechnic.