IGP DECLARES OPEN 2025 NIGERIA POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERS’ CONFERENCE. (PHOTOS). #PRESS RELEASE.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) announced on Thursday that it will suspend the disbursement of upkeep loans to students during school holidays, aligning payments strictly with the academic sessions of tertiary institutions across the country.
In a statement issued by NELFUND’s management, the decision aims to ensure efficient use of resources and better align loan disbursements with students’ academic needs. The upkeep loans, designed to cover living expenses for students in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and other tertiary institutions, will now be disbursed only when academic sessions are active.
“This adjustment reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility and ensuring that funds are utilized effectively to support students during their active academic periods,” said NELFUND’s spokesperson, Aisha Musa. “Disbursements will resume promptly at the start of each institution’s academic session.”
The move has elicited varied responses. Some students expressed concerns about financial challenges during holiday periods, particularly for those who rely on the upkeep loans for basic needs. “The holidays are when some of us need the support most, especially for those without family backing,” said Chidinma Okeke, a second-year student at the University of Lagos.
Conversely, education analysts have praised the decision, arguing it will encourage better financial planning among students and reduce misuse of funds. “This policy ensures that the loans serve their primary purpose—supporting education—rather than being spent outside academic periods,” said Dr. Tunde Afolabi, an education policy expert.
NELFUND clarified that tuition loans, which cover school fees, will remain unaffected by the new policy and will continue to be processed based on institutional requirements. The agency also plans to work with tertiary institutions to ensure accurate academic calendars are provided to streamline the disbursement process.
Students and stakeholders are encouraged to visit NELFUND’s official website or contact their institutions for further details on the implementation of this policy. The agency has promised to provide timely updates ahead of the next academic session.
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