351,317 students Access N84.2b NELFUND – says AGF

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has disclosed that a total of 351,317 students across the nation have accessed N84.2 billion from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as of September 2024.

He stated that initiatives like NELFUND exemplify the federal government’s dedication to equitable education by removing economic obstacles, ensuring that no student is left behind.

The AGF made this disclosure while delivering a convocation lecture at the University of Ilorin titled “Nurturing Democratic Values and Education for the Future of Nigeria”, during the university’s 39th convocation ceremonies on Friday.

Fagbemi emphasized that Nigeria’s educational system must be overhauled to instill democratic values such as tolerance, respect for others, and adherence to the Rule of Law.

He further noted that the educational system should re-orient citizens to understand that democracy is about engagement, transparency, and collaboration, not merely a theoretical concept devoid of challenges and conflicts.

He underscored the need to reform the nation’s educational system to nurture democracy and advance society.

The legal practitioner stressed that education reform should focus on transforming how Nigerians think through education. He added, “Success should be measured by our broad-mindedness and openness to all aspects of life—nature, society, history, truth, and, most importantly, to our fellow humans who work with us toward a common goal. It is doubtful whether our current educational system can adequately address these tasks.”

Prince Fagbemi reiterated that democracy is a dynamic, evolving struggle, not a static concept, and urged Nigerians to shun violence in all forms.

“The future of Nigeria requires strong democratic values nurtured through an inclusive, just, and equitable educational system. Education and democracy are mutually reinforcing. The task of overhauling the colonial-era curriculum to promote justice, equality, and freedom, and to create a more just and united society, must begin immediately.

“In short, integrating democratic values into our educational system will not only enhance academic excellence and development but will also build transparent and accountable leaders, consolidate national unity, and make Nigeria more equitable, just, and progressive,” he said.

He charged the graduating students of the university to positively impact society.

“I implore you to use your knowledge and skills for the good of society. Take initiative, think creatively, advance the social good, and eschew evil and all appearances of evil. You must be champions of democracy and advocates of a strong, peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria.

“Convocation marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. It is a time for reflecting on the road ahead, when graduates consider how they can use their newly acquired knowledge and skills to contribute positively to society. As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, I urge you to serve with conscience and love for humanity.

“More than anything else, your education has equipped you to understand the complexities of society, and that there are no definitive black-and-white answers. Always remember that your education is not just a personal achievement but a tool for societal influence.”

In his address, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), stated, “No education, no nation,” emphasizing that education plays a pivotal role in a democratic setting.

“Citizens should be educated to ask the right questions of their leaders. It promotes values of integrity and accountability, among others.”

Commenting on the university graduates, the VC remarked that they were taught to recognize that education does not end with the receipt of their degrees but involves contributing to the ideals of nurturing a better country with the knowledge and learning acquired.