Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced that applications for the 2023/2024 student loan cycle will officially close on Friday, February 21, 2025, while the 2024/2025 application cycle will commence on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, NELFUND Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, emphasized that the transition is aimed at improving service efficiency and ensuring a seamless application process.
“As part of our commitment to efficiency, transparency, and continuous improvement, the 2023/2024 student loan application portal will officially close on February 21, 2025. I am pleased to announce that the 2024/2025 application cycle will commence immediately on February 22, 2025″
“This transition allows us to streamline operations, align with the academic calendar, and enhance our capacity to process applications efficiently,” Sawyerr stated.
Mr. Sawyerr assured students who submitted their applications before the deadline that their requests would be processed. He also highlighted the impact of sensitization campaigns, which included direct visits to institutions in regions with low application rates.
These efforts, alongside testimonials from beneficiaries, led to a significant rise in student loan applications. “We have witnessed steady growth in applications, now averaging about 1,000 applications per day. The moment students received their first upkeep payments, many realized the program was real, further boosting confidence and participation,” he explained.
To further enhance awareness, NELFUND plans to launch an extensive sensitization campaign and has called on journalists to support the initiative by disseminating accurate information about the loan scheme.
Addressing concerns raised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) regarding the exclusion of a student representative on the NELFUND Board, Board Secretary Mrs. Funmi Alagbada clarified that the power to appoint board members rests solely with President Bola Tinubu, in accordance with the agency’s establishment Act.
As the 2024/2025 application window opens, students are encouraged to take advantage of the program and apply within the stipulated timeframe to secure financial support for their education.
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