NELFUND clarifies inclusion of state institutions in student loan scheme

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has officially addressed misinformation circulating on social media, confirming that state-owned institutions are indeed part of the student loan programme.

This clarification was made by Nasir Ayitogo, NELFUND’s Media and Public Relations Lead, through a statement released on Tuesday.

Contrary to claims that the scheme is exclusive to federal institutions, Ayitogo emphasised, “NELFUND categorically states that this information is incorrect. State institutions are unequivocally by law included in our student loan programme. The programme is designed to roll out in phases to ensure effective and efficient management of the process.”

Ayitogo further explained that while the initial phase of the programme targets students attending federal institutions, the inclusion of state institution students is imminent. This phased approach aims to manage the rollout effectively and ensure all eligible students benefit from the scheme.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, had previously announced that the programme would launch on Friday, starting with approximately 1.2 million students in federal tertiary institutions across Nigeria. Following this, the second phase will extend the loan services to students in state-owned institutions.

“NELFUND is fully committed to providing financial support to all eligible students, regardless of whether they attend federal or state tertiary public institutions,” Ayitogo reiterated. He also highlighted the alignment of the programme with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to ensure that all students have access to the necessary financial resources to pursue their educational aspirations.

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund continues to champion its mission of broadening educational opportunities and removing financial barriers for students nationwide.