The University of Jos, UNIJOS, has emerged as the third-highest beneficiary of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND.
The institution received over N941 million in student loan disbursements for approximately 7,000 students, according to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr.
Sawyerr made this disclosure on Tuesday during a technical session with key stakeholders in Plateau State regarding the Federal Government’s Student Loan Scheme.
The event, held in Jos, was attended by Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, members of the State Executive Council, heads of 13 federal and state tertiary institutions, and student union representatives.
“I’m delighted to tell you that the University of Jos is the third-highest benefiting institution from NELFUND in this country. We have disbursed N941 million to UNIJOS on behalf of over 6,990 students. So, it’s not a scam. Seeing is believing,” Sawyerr stated.
He urged tertiary institutions to update their student information on the NELFUND portal promptly and announced plans to convene a meeting with the ICT directors of beneficiary institutions to resolve technical challenges affecting loan applications.
Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, praised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to expanding educational access, describing the loan scheme as a transformative initiative that would boost both education and local economies.
“I have had the opportunity to relate with Mr. President, and I see his concern for the underprivileged. This singular act has democratized access to education and has also boosted the economy of any community of students,” the governor said.
Confirming the disbursement, Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, expressed gratitude for the funds and encouraged more students to apply, assuring them that the scheme is genuine.
“Receiving the student loan funds in bulk has significantly improved the university’s management and operational processes, allowing us to allocate resources more efficiently,” he added.