The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has voiced strong concern over the delay in disbursing upkeep allowances under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing the situation as unacceptable and harmful to the welfare of beneficiaries across the country
In a statement issued on Saturday, NANS President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, revealed that the association has received numerous complaints from students regarding the non-payment of allowances.
He noted that beneficiaries have not received their stipends for the past two months, with no clear explanation provided by the relevant authorities.
According to him, the prolonged delay has heightened anxiety and hardship among students who depend on the allowances to sustain their academic pursuits amid Nigeria’s prevailing economic challenges.
“I have it on good authority that the disbursement of students’ upkeep allowances has been on hold for the past two months, with no clear explanation or accountability from the relevant authorities.
“This unfortunate situation has generated widespread anxiety among Nigerian students who are beneficiaries across the country,” he stated.
Akinteye stressed that the primary objective of the NELFUND initiative was to provide financial relief and support to Nigerian students, noting that any delay in accessing the funds undermines the essence of the scheme.
“Without mincing words, I wish to state emphatically that the continued delay in the disbursement of these allowances is completely unacceptable. Any delay that deprives students of access to these funds undermines the very purpose for which the initiative was established,” he added.
The NANS president called on the Managing Director of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, and the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, to urgently intervene and address all issues responsible for the delay.
He urged the authorities to provide a clear explanation to students and ensure the immediate payment of all outstanding upkeep allowances.
NANS has accordingly warned that failure by NELFUND and other stakeholders to resolve the matter promptly could force Nigerian students to embark on peaceful mass action, including the occupation of the NELFUND headquarters, until concrete steps are taken to address their grievances.
“Failure to do this within the shortest period of time will leave Nigerian students with no option but to embark on peaceful mass action, including the occupation of the NELFUND Head Office, until concrete steps are taken to address the situation,” he said.
Akinteye, however, noted that the notice should not be interpreted as a threat but rather as a legitimate expression of the frustrations being experienced by thousands of students affected by the delay.
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian students and ensuring that their voices are heard on matters affecting their welfare and education.
“I wish to assure Nigerian students of my firm commitment to protecting their interests and amplifying our collective voice on matters affecting their academic pursuits and well-being. I remain committed to the advancement and welfare of Nigerian students,” the statement added.
