The decision, initially scheduled to end on February 27, 2026, comes in response to a significant increase in awareness and nationwide demand generated by the agency’s ongoing sensitisation campaigns. The extension was confirmed in a statement signed on Monday in Abuja by Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, NELFUND’s Director of Strategic Communications.
“This decision follows a reminder notice issued last week informing the public that the NELFUND Student Loan Application Portal would close on 27 February 2026. In response to strong feedback from students and key stakeholders across the country, and in recognition of the surge in applications and inquiries, the Fund has approved some additional days to ensure all eligible students are given adequate opportunity to complete their applications, pending further management decisions and communications,” the statement said.
NELFUND clarified that the extension is specifically designed to accommodate students who need more time to apply, prospective applicants newly aware of the scheme, institutions just beginning their 2025/2026 academic session, and those whose verified student lists have not yet been submitted.
The agency’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, emphasized NELFUND’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access. “Our sensitisation efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation. Therefore, in line with our mandate to expand access to tertiary education financing, we have approved an extension to ensure that all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply,” he said.
Sawyerr further noted that institutions yet to commence their 2025/2026 academic session must submit official extension requests, accompanied by approved academic calendars, for consideration. Students are strongly encouraged to use this window to complete applications through the official NELFUND portal before it eventually closes.
NELFUND reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of sustainable student financing solutions aimed at removing financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.