From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
National Economic Council (NEC) has commended the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) for its steadfast commitment to advancing education in Nigeria through efficient and timely service delivery.
NEC acknowledged the critical and essential role of NELFund in closing the financial gap for Nigerian students and families, ensuring that financial constraints do not obstruct access to quality education.
NELFund, in a statement, in Abuja, indicated that the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, gave the commendation on behalf of NEC at the State House, Abuja, during a press briefing.
He particularly appreciated the management of Fund led by the Managing Director, Akintunde Sawyerr, whose visionary leadership, he said, has driven the Fund’s remarkable success.
He added: “Sawyerr’s commitment to NELFund’s mission to make education accessible to all Nigerians through affordable loans has been evident in his focus on efficiency and transparency, establishing NELFund as a beacon of hope for students who might have faced financial obstacles in the cause of pursuing higher education.”
He stated that under Sawyerr’s leadership, NELFund has not only expanded its reach, but has also set a high standard for service quality and promptness.
“His strategic approach has enabled the Fund to process loan applications with unprecedented speed and reliability, ensuring eligible students receive timely financial support. This enhanced efficiency has minimized the delays commonly associated with educational funding, creating a reliable and predictable support system for students and their families.”
He added that Mr. Sawyerr’s commitment to accountability and accessibility has earned respect and trust from both beneficiaries and the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
“Sawyerr’s focus on inclusivity, particularly his efforts to reach underserved regions, ensures that students from remote and low-income communities have equal access to these vital resources.
“By reducing financial barriers, the student loan programme is empowering a generation to gain skills, realize their aspirations, and contribute meaningfully to Nigerian society.
“This initiative has already shown positive results, with beneficiaries crediting NELFund’s seamless support as instrumental to their academic success.”