Nigeria: Nelfund - A Lifeline for Nigerian Students

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has been a game-changer for students across the country, providing much-needed financial assistance to those struggling to pay tuition fees and living expenses.

Unveiled on April 3, 2024, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the programme aims to support the educational system in Nigeria, particularly tertiary students across the nation's campuses. The initiative has received widespread acclaim from beneficiaries who praise it for its impact on their academic journeys.

Mrs Halima Sulaiman Balami, a primary school teacher and mother of two undergraduate students, expressed her gratitude, saying, "NELFUND is a helping hand. The loan has covered a significant portion of my children's tuition fees and daily transportation costs."

Ahmed Haruna Dauda, a student from Borno State, described the loan as a "life-changer." He said, "It has reduced the difficulties we face on campus, especially with transportation and printing out handouts."

Alhaji Yusuf Abubakar, a father of three students at Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, shared a similar sentiment: "I was initially skeptical, but after hearing about the positive impact on students from Bayero University, I encouraged my children to apply. The loan has been a huge relief."

Muhammed Ahamed Maina, also a student of Kashim Ibrahim University, highlighted the additional benefits of the programme: "The Training and Entrepreneurship Venture Certificate (TEVC) programme provides training in specific areas, such as engineering software, and offers a profit-sharing opportunity. It's a wonderful initiative."

Mohammed Isa, another beneficiary, shared his personal experience, saying that before receiving the loan, he could only afford to go to school once a week. "Now, with the N20,000 stipend, I can attend classes daily and even buy some clothes," he said.

The NELFUND initiative has undoubtedly made a significant contribution to the academic pursuits of Nigerian students by providing them with the financial support they most need to succeed.

Dauda Biyu, wrote from Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri.

Read the original article on Daily Trust.