JamesAre you searching for the best government boarding schools in Lagos to enroll your child or ward? You’re not alone.
Many Nigerian parents prefer a structured and affordable education system, and government-owned boarding schools in Lagos are a practical solution.
These schools offer both academic excellence and a disciplined environment without the high cost of private institutions.
In this guide, we will walk you through:
Let’s dive in!
What Are Government Boarding Schools?
Government boarding schools are secondary schools owned and managed by either the Lagos State Government or the Federal Government of Nigeria, where students live on campus during the school term.
These schools combine classroom learning with residential care; offering hostel accommodation, meals, discipline, and access to extracurricular activities.
They are different from day schools in that students stay on school premises, only going home during midterms and term breaks.
Benefits of Government Boarding Schools in Lagos
Here are a few reasons why these schools are highly sought after:
1. Affordability
Tuition and boarding fees are subsidized by the government, making them cheaper than private schools.
2. Discipline
Students live by a set timetable, helping them build self-control, punctuality, and academic focus.
3. Academic Support
Some schools have experienced teachers, boarding tutors, and support systems that aid learning.
4. Skill Development
Specialized government technical schools also provide vocational training, preparing students for both work and academics.
5. Facilities
Many model colleges and unity schools have libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities for all-round development.
List of Government Boarding Schools in Lagos
Below is a table showing the names, locations, and types of all government boarding schools in Lagos:
| S/N | School Name | Location | Ownership Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Federal Government College, Ijanikin (FGC Ijanikin) | Ijanikin, Badagry Expressway | Federal (Unity School) |
| 2 | Federal Science and Technical College, Yaba (FSTC Yaba) | Yaba, Lagos | Federal (Technical) |
| 3 | Lagos State Model College, Kankon | Badagry | State (Model College) |
| 4 | Lagos State Model College, Badore | Eti-Osa | State (Model College) |
| 5 | Lagos State Model College, Meiran | Ifako-Ijaiye | State (Model College) |
| 6 | Lagos State Model College, Igbonla | Epe | State (Model College) |
| 7 | Lagos State Model College, Igbokuta | Ikorodu | State (Model College) |
| 8 | Lagos State Model College, Igbogbo | Ikorodu | State (Model College) |
| 9 | Lagos State Model College, Agbowa | Epe | State (Model College) |
| 10 | Lagos State Model College, Mushin | Mushin | State (Model College) |
| 11 | Lagos State Model Junior College, Ketu-Epe | Ketu, Epe | State (Junior Model College) |
| 12 | Government Technical College, Ikotun | Ikotun, Alimosho | State (Technical School) |
| 13 | Government Technical College, Ado Soba | Amuwo Odofin | State (Technical School) |
Admission Requirements and How to Apply
To gain admission into any of these schools, follow these general steps:
1. Obtain the Application Form
- Lagos State Model Colleges conduct entrance exams organized by the Lagos State Examinations Board.
- Federal Unity Colleges and Technical Colleges have their forms via the Federal Ministry of Education portal.
2. Pass the Entrance Exam
- Students must sit for and pass competitive exams.
- Subjects usually include English, Mathematics, and General Knowledge.
3. Provide Relevant Documents
- First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC)
- Birth certificate
- Passport photographs
- Medical fitness report
- Testimonial from previous school
4. Pay Applicable Fees
- Fees cover boarding, meals, books, and uniforms.
- All payments should be made to official government accounts only.
Estimated School Fees (2025)
While exact fees vary yearly, here’s a breakdown of the average annual fees for government boarding schools in Lagos:
| School Type | Estimated Fee (₦) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Unity Colleges | ₦50,000 – ₦75,000 | Tuition, boarding, meals |
| Lagos Model Colleges | ₦40,000 – ₦65,000 | Tuition, hostel, uniforms |
| Technical Colleges (Boarding) | ₦30,000 – ₦60,000 | Vocational training + boarding |
Note: Always check the official school website or visit the school for the latest fee structure.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a School
- Distance: Some schools are located in remote areas; consider access for visiting and emergencies.
- Gender Mix: Most schools are co-educational, but check if you prefer a boys-only or girls-only environment.
- School Reputation: Speak with current students and parents for honest reviews.
- Facilities: Visit the school to assess their hostel, library, toilets, and classroom conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my child stay in a government boarding school from JSS1?
Yes. Most schools accept new students into JSS1, especially after passing the entrance exam.
2. Are there feeding arrangements for boarders?
Yes. Meals are included in the boarding fee, although parents can supply extra provisions.
3. How safe are government boarding schools?
These schools are generally safe and have security officers, housemasters/mistresses, and healthcare units on campus.
4. Do these schools have WAEC and NECO centers?
Yes. All the schools listed are WAEC and NECO accredited and conduct internal and external exams.
5. Can I apply to more than one school?
Yes. During applications, you can indicate multiple preferences, especially for Lagos Model Colleges.
James
