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The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has clarified that the allocation of its student loans is not influenced by geopolitical zoning, following criticisms over the distribution of its latest disbursement.
This clarification came after NELFUND announced the disbursement of N2.94 billion to 19 universities, benefiting 27,667 students. However, the absence of universities from the South-East and South-South regions on the list sparked concerns among Nigerians.
One user on X, @Donaldsplendo, voiced his frustration, tweeting, “Not surprised to see SE being neglected once again. No funds were allocated to students in UNIZIK, FUTO, MOUAU, and even the University of Nigeria (UNN). I’m pretty sure a lot of students in those schools applied for the loan just like every other Nigerian scholar. One Nigeria, una.”
Another user, @Tonia_dimma, expressed similar sentiments, stating, “South-South how market, one Nigeria but no allocation for South-South. We South East are prepared already but how market South-South.”
In response to the concerns, NELFUND addressed the issue on its verified X handle (@nelfund), reiterating that the distribution process is impartial and not influenced by the geopolitical zones of the applicants.
Read also: Otti Calls For Thorough Probe Into MOUAU Students’ Protest
Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, NELFUND’s Head of Corporate Communications, highlighted the agency’s satisfaction with the recent approval of an additional N50 billion from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as directed by President Bola Tinubu in his speech on August 4, 2024. The funds were released to enhance the student loan program.
“This significant injection of funds represents a major milestone in the Administration’s commitment to bolstering access to education by providing financial support to students across Nigeria,” the statement read.
The fund also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering dedication to education and his persistent support for the nation’s most vulnerable. By allocating these funds to the student loan scheme, President Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing opportunities for Nigerian students and driving the nation’s socioeconomic progress, NELFUND added.
