The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) plans to include students from private institutions in its loan scheme by 2028.
This goal was shared during a sensitisation event held in Enugu, where the agency engaged with educational stakeholders using both English and local languages to ensure wider understanding.
The managing director of NELFund, Akintunde Sawyerr, explained that the current focus remains on students in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges.
According to him, many of these students face financial struggles and are at risk of dropping out due to the inability to pay relatively small fees.
He noted that public school students often lack the option to switch to private institutions and therefore need urgent attention.
NELFund, which started operations just a year ago, aims to ensure that these students in public institutions are properly supported first.
The agency said that once the loan system is fully functional for public schools and its effects are clearly seen, a review will be carried out to see how private school students can also benefit.
Sawyerr acknowledged that the agency has faced some hurdles, especially from applicants who are unsure about the process or believe the system might be unfair to them.
He pointed out that many of the issues come from confusion, fear of technology, or past experiences that make people doubtful.
However, he assured that the agency is working to help both students and institutions understand and participate fully in the loan application process.
Also speaking at the event, a representative of the Enugu State Government stressed the need for loans to help students in the region.
She noted that funding is a key part of education and the government’s efforts can support learning in many ways.
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