NELFUND hits one million applications, marks major milestone in student loan access

By Kunle Sanni –

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has achieved a significant milestone with over one million applications recorded on its student loan portal since its official launch on May 24, 2024.

The landmark achievement highlights the growing impact of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to rebuild trust in government-led empowerment programmes and make higher education more accessible to Nigerians.

According to NELFUND, more than ₦16 billion has already been disbursed in student loans, covering tuition and upkeep allowances for students in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country.

Speaking on the development, NELFUND Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, described the one-million-application milestone as a defining moment in Nigeria’s pursuit of equitable education financing.

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

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

The agency emphasized that the programme is inclusive and non-discriminatory, benefiting Nigerians of all faiths and ethnicities. It aims to promote equal access to education and contribute to national development by ensuring no student is left behind due to financial hardship.

NELFUND urged students and stakeholders seeking more information or assistance to contact the agency via email at [email protected] or visit its social media platforms and website at www.nelf.gov.ng.