This appeal was made yesterday in Abuja by the Managing Director/Chief Executive of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, during a Stakeholders’ Engagement Session & Technical Workshop. The event brought together Student Union Presidents from various tertiary institutions and officials of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
Sawyerr reassured the student leaders of NELFUND's unwavering commitment to breaking down financial obstacles and fostering opportunities for all Nigerian students, regardless of their socioeconomic background. He urged them to collaborate closely with the agency to amplify the positive impact of the loan scheme.
"To make this work, we need you. Your voice. Your leadership. Your engagement on campus. Help us raise awareness, refine our processes, and ensure that this scheme reaches every student it was designed to serve," Sawyerr stated.
He further highlighted that the initiative aligns directly with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes inclusion, empowerment, and a renewed dedication to education as a national imperative.
On his part, the Executive Director of Operations at NELFUND, Iyal Mustapha, cautioned tertiary institutions against any delays in verifying students' loan applications. He explained that once applications are submitted, they require institutional confirmation before funds can be disbursed. Slow responses from some institutions have occasionally led to delays in this crucial step.
"We need your schools to respond quickly. If they don’t confirm your status, we can’t release the funds," Mustapha emphasized. "You must be involved in making sure your institutions do the right thing."
He underscored the unique benefits of the loan scheme for students: "This is your opportunity. We are the youth, and we are here to support you. This loan is about removing barriers so you can focus on your education. There is no interest, no guarantor, and no harassment, just commitment to learning."
Mustapha elaborated that the loan program is specifically designed to combat dropout rates caused by financial difficulties. It offers Nigerian students access to funds that cover institutional charges and provides monthly upkeep support. "There is no reason for anyone to drop out of school," he asserted.
Also speaking at the engagement session, the President of NANS, Olushola Oladoja, issued a warning to institutions and individuals reportedly attempting to sabotage the loan scheme.
Umar Lawal, a final-year student at Bayero University, Kano, commended President Bola Tinubu's administration for fulfilling its promise to transform tertiary education in Nigeria through this initiative.