The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has commended the management of Delta State University, Abraka, for implementing what it described as a student friendly directive that allows students under the NELFUND loan scheme to participate in the first semester 2025/2026 examinations.
The directive, issued through an internal memorandum from the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), permits students whose status on the NELFUND platform shows “Verified” or “Disbursed” to sit for their examinations upon presenting proof of their status on the scheme.
Reacting to the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, described the move as a strong example of collaboration between tertiary institutions and the student loan programme.
He said the decision reflects a clear understanding of the purpose of the scheme, which is to ensure that no Nigerian student is denied access to education because of financial challenges.
“We warmly welcome this student centred approach by Delta State University. It shows a clear understanding of the purpose of the NELFUND scheme, which is to ensure that no Nigerian student is denied access to education because of financial constraints,” Sawyerr said.
He added that NELFUND is encouraged to see institutions adopting practical and youth friendly measures that allow students who have successfully completed the loan application process to continue their academic activities without disruption.
Sawyerr further noted that such steps support the broader objective of the programme, which is to expand access to higher education while promoting fairness and inclusivity across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
NELFUND also encouraged other universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to adopt similar measures that prioritise students’ academic progress while the loan process continues to provide financial support for tuition and upkeep.
The Fund reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with higher institutions across the country to ensure the effective implementation of the student loan programme and to protect the educational aspirations of Nigerian students.