The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated over ₦90 billion to support the education and welfare of more than 400,000 students across the country’s tertiary institutions. This initiative is part of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), introduced by President Bola Tinubu to expand access to higher education and reduce financial burdens on students and their families.
According to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the fund provides direct financial assistance to students, covering not only tuition fees but also upkeep allowances. This support enables students to continue their education without disruptions due to economic hardship. Since its rollout, the scheme has attracted attention as one of the administration’s flagship interventions in education.
The Minister explained that the President’s vision is to ensure that all Nigerians benefit from government policies, regardless of political affiliation or religion. As of August 6, 2025, disbursements had reached ₦86.3 billion, with ₦47.6 billion allocated to cover institutional fees across 218 beneficiary institutions, and ₦38.7 billion paid directly to students as upkeep allowances. A total of 780,089 students have registered on the platform, and 449,039 students have so far benefited from the scheme.
Idris urged Nigerians to look beyond political affiliations when assessing government initiatives, emphasizing that the NELFUND is essential for students to stay in school. He reiterated that President Tinubu’s leadership is focused on the collective good of Nigerians, irrespective of religion or political party. The Minister’s statement highlights the government’s commitment to education and welfare, aiming to create a more prosperous Nigeria.
The NELFUND is a significant step towards achieving this goal, providing critical support to students and their families. As the scheme continues to roll out, it is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s education sector, enabling more students to access higher education and pursue their academic goals without financial constraints. With the government’s allocation of over ₦90 billion, the NELFUND is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Nigerian students, contributing to the country’s long-term prosperity and development.
