FROM FINANCIAL STRAIN TO ACADEMIC FOCUS: HOW NELFUND IS CHANGING STUDENT LIVES
Access to education remains a major hurdle for many Nigerian students, especially those from low-income backgrounds. With the introduction of the NELFUND loan scheme, several students are now finding hope where there was once despair. Their stories highlight how this initiative is transforming academic journeys.For many Nigerian students, pursuing higher education comes with daily worries about tuition and upkeep costs, but for Samuel Udeh of the University of Uyo and Khadija Sonibare of the University of Ibadan, the NELFUND student loan scheme has lifted this burden, opening their minds to focus fully on their studies and aspirations without the fear of dropping out.
Udeh, a History and International Studies student, shared how he was able to stay in school despite not having anyone to pay his fees. “NELFUND has helped me a lot. I can do some major things concerning my education, like paperwork and other payments,” he said. He added that beyond paying fees, the monthly allowance helps him plan ahead “I’m saving part of the money I’ve been receiving; I’ve been saving some,” he shared proudly, explaining that he now manages his expenses with wisdom and intention. This has also relieved his parents of constant financial demands for his education.
Similarly, Sonibare, a Pharmacy student, explained that the loan eased her father’s financial stress. “It’s just making me more concentrated and more focused without bothering my dad about getting money for school,” she said, describing how knowing her tuition is settled gives her peace to concentrate on her clinical rotations and academic projects. She also praised the seamless application process that ensures money is paid directly to the university, preventing misuse and guaranteeing timely payment of fees. Both students urged others to seize this opportunity.
“It’s a golden opportunity given by the Federal Government to reach students and ease their burden,” Sonibare advised. Their experiences prove that the NELFUND loan scheme is truly life-changing for students across Nigeria, enabling them to focus on academic excellence rather than financial survival.
