Overview of the Clarification

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has dismissed circulating claims that beneficiaries of the federal government’s student loan programme have been directed to begin repaying their loans. The agency described the reports as inaccurate and capable of causing unnecessary worry among students across the country.

Official Statement from NELFUND

In a statement released in Abuja on Saturday, NELFUND confirmed that no directive has been issued requiring students to start loan repayment. The Fund noted that messages spreading on social media and some online platforms did not originate from any of its authorised communication channels.

The clarification was signed by the Director of Strategic Communications, Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, who reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to engage with students, institutions, and the general public to provide timely and accurate information.

University of Benin’s Response

The clarification followed a separate announcement from the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie, SAN, who disowned a document circulating online that allegedly detailed repayment procedures for NELFUND loans.

According to the university, the circular did not come from UNIBEN, and there has been no official guideline released by either NELFUND or the federal government regarding loan repayment.

Legal Position on Loan Repayment

NELFUND explained that repayment terms are clearly defined in its enabling law. Under these provisions, beneficiaries are not required to make any payments while they remain enrolled in school or if they are unemployed after graduation.

“Students are not expected to repay their loans during their period of study. Repayment only begins once a beneficiary secures gainful employment, in line with the law,” the Fund stated.

Commitment to Student Welfare and Transparency

The Fund reiterated that the student loan scheme is designed to promote equal access to higher education through a fair and transparent process. It assured beneficiaries that any legitimate updates on loan administration or repayment will be communicated only through verified platforms and official government channels.

Advisory to the Public

NELFUND urged students, parents, tertiary institutions, and the wider public to disregard unverified documents and avoid sharing misleading information that could heighten anxiety nationwide.

Final Assurance from the Fund

Concluding its statement, NELFUND reaffirmed its commitment to due process, accountability, and the protection of students’ interests, emphasizing that all official announcements will come directly from the Fund through recognised and authorised sources.