By Oluseye Ojo
Almost ₦50 billion has been disbursed by the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to over 500,000 students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has disclosed.
The disclosure was made by the Oyo State Director of NOA, Dr Olukemi Afolayan, when she featured on a live television programme – BOSENLO, on the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) on Thursday.
According to her, NOA is working to identify and report to appropriate agencies, institutions and individuals hindering access to the loan towards curbing corruption tendencies in the process.
Afolayan assured Nigerian students that the Federal Government is working assiduously to ensure a transparent and accountable disbursement of the loan.
“Let me tell you that over 500,000 students are currently benefiting from the scheme, with almost N50 billion disbursed so far,” she explained.
Afolayan assured students that the government is committed to ensuring a hitch-free process despite some challenges.
Speaking further on application status, she urged verified applicants to remain hopeful, while those not verified should reapply.
Afolayan also emphasised the importance of prompt repayment of the loan as and when due to sustain the scheme.
She reiterated NOA’s Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu’s assurance to students and parents of the agency’s dedication to ensuring that all qualified applicants benefit from the government intervention programme.
Afolayan enjoined the public to report any misconduct for a thorough investigation.