The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) announced on Tuesday a 14-day postponement of the student loan application process for state institutions.
This decision was made due to insufficient data submissions, as stated by the agency in Abuja.
According to NELFUND in a statement, the delay stems from the failure of many state-owned institutions to upload necessary student data and fee details onto the NELFUND Student Verification System.
“As of now, only a limited number of state-owned institutions have successfully completed the data submission process,” NELFUND stated.
Out of 48 state universities, only 20 have submitted their data, while 12 out of 54 state colleges and 2 out of 49 state polytechnics have done so.
“While appreciating the efforts of these institutions, the failure of the remaining state institutions to submit their data poses significant challenges for ensuring a smooth and accurate verification process for student loan applicants.”
Originally scheduled to commence on June 25, 2024, the application window will now open on July 10, 2024, following the extension.
This extension aims to grant state institutions additional time to comply with data submission requirements, ensuring their students can benefit from the Federal Government’s student loan scheme.
NELFUND emphasised the importance of providing complete and accurate information, including JAMB numbers, matriculation numbers, admission details, full names, academic levels, faculties, departments, program durations, fees, and gender of eligible students. Incomplete or incorrect data submissions may lead to application delays or disqualification for affected students.
The fund urged all state institutions to expedite their data submission processes and ensure information accuracy.
It cautioned that institutions failing to meet the revised deadline risk disadvantaging their students who rely on these loans for educational support.
