Toye Fisher
As part of activities to mark a Two- Day National Universities Commission Parastatal Servicom Committee ( NUC-PSC) Meeting in Federal University Oye- Ekiti (FUOYE), NELFUND held a sensitization session to enlighten and educate students on its activities and benefits on Wednesday, 9th April, 2025 at the Fasina Conference Centre.
Speaking at the event, the MD/ CEO of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyer, represented by Mr Olusola Fowobaja, a Director in NELFUND highlighted some of the activities and benefits of NELFUND in Nigeria university system, urging students to take advantage of the Fund as it was created solely for their benefit.
Mr Olusola highlighted the Account Creation and Loan Application process to make for easier application by students.
He, however, encouraged students to
1. Visit the website at www.nelf.gov.ng
2. Click on the “Apply Now” to create a new account using their Matric Number, NIN and JAMB registration number.
3. The system validates JAMB status with DOB and JAMB Reg. No.
4. Once validated, the Applicant provides email address and creates password.
5. Applicant completes registration
On understanding ownership in education, Mr Olusola stated that ownership means stakeholders taking responsibility for the development of the education sector while emphasizing the roles being played by the government, Institutions and the Individual which included Policy creation, funding, and infrastructure development; ensuring quality education and Accessibility; and also Engaging in education financing and fostering accountability respectively.
On NELFUND’S role in promoting inclusiveness in education, he highlighted three key points;
1. Access to Education: Access to education should not be determined by financial background, gender, or geographical location. Nonetheless, one of the significant barriers to inclusiveness remain financial constraints.NELFUND is committed to bridging these gaps by offering interest-free loans to students in public institutions across Nigeria, thereby fostering equitable access to higher education for all.
2. Leaving No One Behind: Everyone deserves a chance to pursue their dreams, no matter where they come from or what challenges they face. With inclusive funding initiatives, Nigeria students can transform their lives. That’s why NELFUND is providing interest-free loans to students in public institutions all over Nigeria, helping to make education accessible for everyone.
3. Driving Inclusiveness in Education: At the heart of a thriving society is an education system that leaves no one behind. Inclusive funding initiatives enable students in public institutions to overcome financial and barriers and achieve academic success.NELFUND plays a vital role in dismantling these barrier by offering interest-free loans to students.
On Sustainability in Education Funding, he harped on four key points.
1. Long-term sustainability is crucial for maintaining education financing structures.
2. NELFUND model ensures sustainability by offering long- deferred repayment periods.
3. Leveraging alternative funding sources such as alumni contributions and corporate sponsorships.
4. The role of government policies in sustaining funding for tertiary education.
He further stated that “NELFUND recognizes that the future of education is being reshaped by emerging trends and technologies.
“By embracing innovations such as digital learning platforms, online application systems, data-driven decision-making, and financial technology (Fintech) solutions, NELFUND enhances the accessibility, efficiency, and transparency of student loan services.
“Through the adoption of modern tools, we ensure that students across Nigeria can easily access funding, monitor their loan status in real-time, and benefit from a more responsive, technology-enabled support system.
“By staying ahead of new trends, NELFUND not only improves service delivery as SERVICOM entails but also contributes to a more inclusive, technology-driven educational ecosystem nationwide.”
Meanwhile, the presentation also featured an interactive session where students and participants were allowed to ask questions while clarity was provided.
Photo Credit: Toluwanimi Bamigbola
