The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has approved an extension of its Student L
oan Application Portal following a significant rise in nationwide applications driven by its ongoing sensitisation campaign.
In a statement issued by the Fund’s Director of Strategic Communications, Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the decision comes after an earlier reminder that the portal was scheduled to close on February 27, 2026.
According to the statement, strong feedback from students and stakeholders, as well as a surge in applications and inquiries, prompted the approval of additional days to allow more eligible students complete their registration.
The extension remains subject to further management decisions and communication.
The Fund says the extension is designed to accommodate students who require extra time to complete their applications, prospective applicants who recently became aware of the scheme during nationwide sensitisation engagements, institutions just commencing the 2025/2026 academic session, and institutions yet to submit their verified student lists.
Speaking on the development, Managing Director and Chief Executive of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to tertiary education financing.
He noted that sensitisation efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation, adding that the extension will ensure all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply.
NELFUND also advised institutions that have not commenced the 2025/2026 academic session to submit an official request for extension, along with their approved academic calendar, for consideration.
Students are urged to take advantage of the extended window to complete their applications via the official NELFUND portal before final closure.
The Fund reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of sustainable student financing solutions aimed at removing financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.
