The Nigerian government has finally announced that the application portal for the much touted student loan will open on Friday, 24 May.
This is contained in a statement issued by the management of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), the body saddled with the responsibility to manage and disburse the loans to interested students.
This is coming eight months after the programme failed to kick off in September 2023 earlier announced by President Bola Tinubu.
The president had earlier given the September 2023 date before it was later moved to January. However, the President later recalled the earlier law passed and presented a modified copy which addressed some of the grey areas identified by concerned Nigerians.
In a statement issued by NELFUND and signed by its spokesman, Nasir Ayitogo, the organisation gave the new date for the opening of the portal as 24 May.
The statement reads in part: “The management of Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) led by its Managing Director, Mr Akintunde Sawyerr are thrilled to announce 24th of May, 2024 as official date for the opening of portal for student loan applications.
“This marks a significant milestone in the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) to fostering accessible and inclusive education for all Nigerian students. Through the portal, students can now access loans to pursue their academic aspirations without financial constraints. The portal provides a user-friendly interface for students to submit their loan applications conveniently.”
The agency urged eligible students of tertiary institutions and accredited skill acquisition centres nationwide “to take advantage of this opportunity to invest in their future and contribute to the growth and development of our nation.”
The agency said the portal can be accessed via www.nelf.gov.ng, also urging them to seek more information and assistance through the agency’s verified social media handles to avoid being duped by fraudulent persons.