The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has applauded the management of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, for adopting what it described as a student-focused approach in carrying out the federal government’s student loan programme.
In a statement released in Abuja on Monday, NELFUND praised the university for allowing students whose loan status on the NELFUND platform reads “Verified” or “Disbursed” to take part in the first semester examinations for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The decision followed an internal memo issued by the university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Engr. Prof. Hilary Ijeoma Owamah, to faculty deans. In the memo dated March 6, 2026, the university stated that students who can provide proof that their NELFUND status is either verified or disbursed will be permitted to sit for their exams.
According to the university, the measure was introduced to ensure fairness, prevent students from being academically disadvantaged, and promote equal access to education for those benefiting from the federal loan scheme.
The memo explained that students with a “Verified” or “Disbursed” status on the NELFUND platform have already met the necessary conditions required under the programme.
Responding to the development, NELFUND’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Akintunde Sawyer, described the decision as a positive example of how institutions can support Nigerian students through collaboration.
He commended the university for putting students first, noting that the move reflects a proper understanding of the goal of the NELFUND scheme, which is to ensure that no Nigerian student is denied education because of financial difficulties.
Sawyer also pointed out that the action shows how tertiary institutions can take practical steps to help students who have completed the loan application process continue their studies without interruption.
NELFUND further encouraged universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country to adopt similar measures to support students benefiting from the scheme.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with tertiary institutions nationwide to ensure the smooth implementation of the student loan programme and to protect the educational ambitions of Nigerian students.
The NELFUND initiative forms part of the higher education financing reforms introduced under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The programme aims to widen access to tertiary education while reducing the financial pressure on students and their families.
