The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) has disbursed more than N2.5 billion in institutional fees to 12 schools across the country, benefiting 22,120 students. This was announced by the Fund’s Spokesman, Nasir Ayitogo, in a statement on Friday in Abuja.
Ayitogo explained that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for Nigerians. The strategic effort is designed to help students in need continue their education by easing the burden of financial constraints.
Disbursements were made according to each institution’s academic calendar at the beginning of the session. So far, six of the 12 institutions have received full payment of their fees, benefiting over 20,000 students. The total amount disbursed to these institutions stands at approximately N2,026,163,340, with the remaining six institutions set to receive their payments in the coming week.
“These disbursements will ensure that Nigerian students can continue their academic activities without financial hindrances, providing the peace of mind necessary for them and their families,” Ayitogo stated.
In addition to covering institutional fees, NELFund has also begun disbursing upkeep payments to students, with N442 million allocated for the month of July. These payments will provide essential financial support for living expenses, benefiting all 22,120 students across the 12 institutions.
Ayitogo emphasized that the initiative reflects the federal government’s commitment to the well-being and academic success of students in government institutions. “These figures underscore NELFund’s dedication to ensuring that financial constraints do not impede academic pursuits,” he said, adding that the disbursements will significantly ease financial burdens on students and their families, allowing them to focus on their studies and future careers.