NELFUND: Student loan application hits one million

Disburses over N116bn

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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disclosed that records on its portal indicated that application for student loan has hit one million.

Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, Director, Strategic Communications, NELFUND, in a statement on Sunday, noted that over N116 billion has been disbursed to students so far. “This covers both institutional fees and upkeep allowances to students across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide.

“This milestone reflects the administration’s unwavering commitment to human capital development and inclusive growth, restoring faith in government-led social empowerment programmes and making higher education more accessible to all Nigerians.”

NELFUND Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, described it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s journey toward equitable education financing.

He said: “Crossing the one million mark represents more than data; it represents renewed hope for a generation of Nigerians determined to rise above financial barriers to education. It is a testament to visionary leadership, sound policy design, and the collective efforts of all stakeholders driving this transformative agenda.”

He reaffirmed NELFUND’s commitment to continuous process improvement, ensuring that every qualified Nigerian student regardless of background or location, can access education funding with transparency, efficiency, and dignity.

“With this milestone, NELFUND stands as a shining example of a government initiative that is working, authentic, effective, and truly transformative. The programme demonstrates that when leadership, vision, and accountability align, lasting change is possible,” he added.

He maintained that NELFUND is a non-discriminatory initiative that benefits Nigerians of all faiths and tribes, Christians, Muslims, and others across diverse ethnic backgrounds. It helps unify the country by providing equal access to education and fostering shared progress.

“As the NELFUND continues to expand its reach and impact, it remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that no Nigerian is denied the opportunity to learn, grow, or contribute to national progress because of financial limitations,” he added.