NELFUND Student Loan Update: Nigerian University Permits Verified Beneficiaries to Write Exams

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has praised the management of Delta State University, Abraka, for adopting what it described as a student-focused approach in implementing the Federal Government’s student loan programme.

The commendation followed a directive issued by the university on March 6, 2026, which permits students who have been verified under the NELFUND loan scheme or have already received loan disbursements to participate in the first semester examinations for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The directive was communicated through an internal memorandum signed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Hilary Ijeoma. According to the memo, students whose application status on the NELFUND portal shows “verified” or “disbursed” are eligible to sit for their examinations after presenting proof of their status on the student loan platform.

Reacting to the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, described the decision by Delta State University as a positive step that demonstrates cooperation between higher institutions and the student loan scheme in supporting Nigerian students.

In a statement released by the Director of Strategic Communications at NELFUND, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, Sawyerr noted that the university’s action reflects a clear understanding of the objectives of the student loan programme.

According to him, the initiative is designed to ensure that no qualified Nigerian student is denied access to education due to financial difficulties.

He explained that the decision by the institution represents a practical and student-friendly measure that allows beneficiaries who have successfully completed the loan application process to continue their academic activities without interruption.

Sawyerr further stated that the move aligns with the broader goals of the NELFUND programme, which seeks to expand access to higher education while promoting fairness and inclusivity across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

He also encouraged other universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across the country to adopt similar supportive policies that prioritise students’ academic progress while the student loan process continues to provide financial support for tuition fees and upkeep.

NELFUND reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with tertiary institutions nationwide to ensure the effective implementation of the student loan scheme and to safeguard the educational aspirations of Nigerian students who depend on the programme for financial support.