NELFUND extends student loan applications deadline

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced the extension of deadline for the closure of its student loan application portal.

This followed an observed significant increase in awareness and nationwide demand generated by its ongoing sensitisation campaign.

Director of Strategic Communications, NELFUND, Mrs Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, in a statement, yesterday, explained that the decision was taken to allow the students the opportunity to benefit from the scheme.

She made reference to a reminder notice issued last week informing the public about the plans to close the NELFUND Student Loan Application Portal on February 27. “In response to strong feedback from students and key stakeholders across the country and in recognition of the surge in applications and inquiries, the Fund has approved some additional days to ensure all eligible students are given adequate opportunity to complete their applications, pending further management decisions and communications.

“The extension is specifically intended to accommodate students who require additional time to complete their applications; prospective applicants who became aware of the scheme during the recent nationwide sensitisation engagements; institutions newly commencing their 2025/2026 academic session and institutions who have not yet submitted their verified student lists.

She urged students to take advantage of the window to complete their applications via the official NELFUND portal before it eventually closes.

Managing Director/Chief Executive of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, in his submission reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access.

“Our sensitisation efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation. Therefore, in line with our mandate to expand access to tertiary education financing, we have approved an extension to ensure that all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply.”

He insisted that institutions which have not yet commenced the 2025/2026 academic session must submit an official request for extension, accompanied by their approved academic calendar, for consideration.

He renewed NELFUND commitment to transparency, accountability and the delivery of sustainable student financing solutions that remove financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.