NELFUND Loan Delays Threaten Nigerian Students’ Exams

For thousands of Nigerian students, the promise of financial aid through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) remains unfulfilled, leaving them in limbo as tuition deadlines and exams draw near.

Despite being approved for disbursement, many students across 23 public universities and polytechnics are yet to receive their loans, sparking growing frustration.

Designed to provide financial relief, NELFUND has processed over 364,000 applications and disbursed more than N20 billion for institutional fees, alongside N12.8 billion in stipends.

Yet, reports from students at institutions like the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Federal University Lokoja, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Ladoke Akintola University suggest that a significant number are still waiting for their funds.

Social media has become a rallying point for affected students. Some describe being stranded, unable to pay tuition or register for courses, while others fear being locked out of exams.

A student from the University of Maiduguri, verified since August, lamented months of waiting without an update.

Another from Nnamdi Azikiwe University warned that with school portals closing, many students risk losing their academic standing.

While NELFUND acknowledges the delays, an official—who spoke on condition of anonymity—shifted the blame to universities.

According to the source, once loans are approved, institutions must verify student details before disbursement. However, some schools reportedly take too long to process the necessary confirmations, creating setbacks.

With academic deadlines fast approaching, students are calling for urgent intervention to prevent disruptions to their education.