The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Akintunde Sawyerr, has detailed the streamlined process for accessing student loans, emphasizing a fully automated system without human contact. In a statement released on Monday, January 22, 2024, by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, the move towards automation aims to enhance efficiency.
Sawyerr clarified that the loan disbursement, earmarked for eligible Nigerian students, will be directly transferred to institutions through electronic channels in the initial phase. This perpetually designed program, as explained, ensures continuous support for students while bypassing human interference.
The statement followed a meeting between Akintunde Sawyerr and President Bola Tinubu at the State House on Monday. During the meeting, President Tinubu directed NELFUND to expand the student loan program, encompassing individuals interested in skill-development programs. Tinubu stressed the significance of skill acquisition alongside traditional academic qualifications, stating, “This is not an exclusive program. It is catering to all of our young people.”
The President highlighted the diverse talents among young Nigerians, advocating for the inclusion of skill-development programs in NELFUND’s initiatives. He urged the fund to explore opportunities that align with the varied aspirations of the youth, recognizing that not everyone aims for a comprehensive university education.