The University of Benin (UNIBEN), one of Nigeria’s most reputable federal universities, has officially announced the activation of its newly upgraded payment portal for all newly admitted students ahead of the 2025/2026 academic session. This development affects both fresh 100-level students and newly admitted 200-level Direct Entry (DE) candidates who recently secured admission into the institution.

The announcement, released by the university management, marks a significant step in ensuring a smooth onboarding process for new intakes. With thousands of students preparing to resume, UNIBEN has emphasized the importance of using only the approved official payment portal for all school-charge transactions. This directive aims to protect students from fraudulent platforms, payment errors, and other complications commonly associated with unofficial channels.

1. Why the Announcement Is Important

Every academic year introduces a new set of students who must complete various registration and payment processes. UNIBEN’s management recognizes that first-time students may be unfamiliar with the online systems and procedures. By launching a modernized payment portal and providing clear instructions, the university ensures:

a. Safety and Transparency

Online payment fraud is a growing concern. Fraudulent agents and unauthorized websites often exploit new students who may not understand the correct payment process. UNIBEN’s reminder to use only the approved portal is a proactive measure to protect students financially and maintain transparency.

b. Efficient Record-Keeping

Payments made on the authorized portal are automatically linked to a student’s academic profile. This reduces errors, misplacement of receipts, and delays during clearance and registration.

c. Smooth Academic Resumption

Timely payment of school charges is a requirement for accessing many university services, including:

• Course registration

• Hostel accommodation

• Faculty clearance

• Student ID creation

• Library services

With the payment portal now active, students can complete these processes early and avoid last-minute pressure.

d. Continuity in Fee Structure

The university reassured the public that there is no increase in school charges for the 2025/2026 session. This stability is significant for parents and guardians planning financially for their wards.

2. Overview of the Newly Upgraded Payment Portal

The payment portal, accessible via portal.uniben.edu, has been redesigned to accommodate a larger volume of students and improve user experience. Upgrades include:

• A simplified login interface

• Faster processing of payments

• Enhanced integration with REMITA

• Better error-handling and transaction tracking

• 24/7 accessibility

• Stronger cybersecurity protocols

The portal ensures that all payments are correctly recorded and verified, helping students avoid unnecessary visits to physical offices for confirmation.

3. Who Needs to Use the Payment Portal?

The portal is specifically open to:

• New 100-level UTME students (freshers)

• Newly admitted 200-level Direct Entry students

These categories of students must pay their school charges as part of their initial clearance and registration processes. Returning students are expected to continue using the same system when their own payment window opens.

4. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Payments

To prevent confusion, UNIBEN outlined a clear and straightforward procedure for all fresh students. The steps are summarized below in simple language:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to portal.uniben.edu on your mobile device, tablet, or computer.
Click on the Login Menu.

Step 2: Enter Your Login Credentials

Use the following:

• User ID (Student ID)

• Password assigned during your admission process

If you have trouble logging in, students are advised to contact the ICT support line or use the “forgot password” function.

Step 3: Navigate to Payment Menu

Once logged in:

• Click on PAYMENT

• Select SCHOOL CHARGES under the dropdown menu

This ensures you are paying the correct fee category.

Step 4: Process the Payment

Click on the PROCESS PAYMENT button.

This will redirect you to the REMITA payment interface — the federal government-approved payment platform used by most Nigerian institutions.

Step 5: Follow REMITA Instructions

On the REMITA page:

• Choose your preferred payment method
  (bank transfer, debit card, POS, or bank branch payment)

• Confirm the amount

• Enter your account details

• Complete the transaction

Once payment is successful, a receipt will be generated automatically and linked to your student profile.

5. Avoiding Payment Problems — UNIBEN’s Warning

UNIBEN strongly advised all new students to avoid using third-party agents, café attendants, or unauthorized intermediaries who claim they can make payment on behalf of students. Common risks include:

• Incorrect payment entries

• Fake receipts

• Missing transactions

• Overcharging

• Difficulty resolving issues

To avoid being scammed, the university insists on using only:

✔ The official UNIBEN portal
✔ The approved REMITA gateway
✔ Verified ICT support lines

Students are also encouraged to keep digital and printed copies of their payment receipts for future reference.

6. What Happens After Payment?

Once payment is completed successfully, students can proceed with other registration activities depending on the stage of their documentation. These may include:

a. Clearance at Departments/Faculties

Departments will verify payment status before allowing new students to proceed with physical and online clearance.

b. Course Registration

Students who have paid their charges can register their courses for the semester.

c. Access to Accommodation Options

Only students who have paid will be eligible to apply for hostel spaces when the portal opens.

d. Issuance of University ID Card

School ID cards are generated only after payment validation.

e. Access to University Facilities

Payment grants full access to the library, laboratories, online resources, and other academic services.

7. Support and Enquiries — ICT Unit Contacts

To help students facing technical issues or requiring clarification, the university provided dedicated lines for assistance:

📞 08143058717
📞 09031516333

📧 Email: [email protected]

The ICT unit is responsible for handling:

• Portal login issues

• Password resets

• Payment failures

• REMITA error messages

• Incorrect student information

• Portal navigation support

Students are advised that response time may be slower during peak periods, so they should remain patient and persistent.

8. Why UNIBEN’s Payment System Matters for New Students

The payment portal is not just a platform for fee collection — it is part of the university’s broader digital transformation. It supports a more efficient academic environment by:

a. Reducing Paperwork

Traditional manual payment systems involved long queues, paper receipts, and frequent errors. The digital portal eliminates these inefficiencies.

b. Enhancing Financial Accountability

Payment records are automatically stored and audited, ensuring transparency.

c. Ensuring Student Data Integrity

The portal links payment history directly to each student’s academic profile.

d. Supporting Remote Access

Students can make payments from any part of Nigeria or abroad, without traveling to Benin City.

e. Promoting a Stress-Free Clearance Process

A streamlined portal reduces confusion during resumption, allowing new students to settle quickly into academic life.

9. Advice for Newly Admitted Students

Navigating university systems for the first time can be overwhelming. UNIBEN’s management encourages all fresh students to:

• Start payment early to avoid rush-hour server congestion

• Double-check their Student ID before logging in

• Avoid cybercafés that do not allow students to see their screens

• Use secure payment cards or bank accounts

• Store their receipts safely both online and offline

• Follow the official UNIBEN social media pages for updates

• Contact ICT support for any irregularities

Additionally, students should note that payment of school charges is compulsory before they gain full access to academic activities.

10. Final Thoughts

The University of Benin continues to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence, transparency, and student-friendly policies by launching its newly upgraded payment portal ahead of the 2025/2026 academic session. The management’s reassurance that school charges remain unchanged provides further relief for families, especially at a time when economic challenges affect many households.

With clear steps, official support channels, and a secure payment system, new students are encouraged to follow the guidelines strictly to avoid complications. The payment portal is now live, and early completion of registration will help freshers begin their journey at UNIBEN smoothly and confidently.