Students are co-architects of NELFUND’s success – MD

By Mariam Abeeb

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Mr Akintunde Sawyerr, has stated that students are not just beneficiaries of NELFUND but co-architects of its success.

Sawyerr said this during his closing remarks at a Stakeholders’ Engagement Session and Technical Workshop on NELFUND System Automation and Loan Application Processes, in Abuja.

The fourth day of the engagement session focused on Student Union Presidents from tertiary institutions.

He emphasised the vital role students play in refining the loan application process, increasing awareness, and ensuring the scheme reaches its intended beneficiaries.

“Students are not just beneficiaries of NELFUND; you are co-architects of its success,” he said.

Sawyerr further highlighted that President Bola Tinubu’s vision for NELFUND was anchored in national inclusion, breaking down financial barriers, and leveraging education as a transformative tool.

Reaffirming NELFUND’s commitment, he outlined its core principles, which include transparency, open communication, a secure and seamless application process, and a student-first approach in all operations.

“These goals cannot be achieved by the institution alone. We need you, your voice, your leadership, and your engagement on campus,” he noted.

He urged student union leaders to serve as ambassadors of the fund, raise awareness among their peers, and collaborate with NELFUND to improve and perfect its systems.

Sawyerr ended by reiterating NELFUND’s commitment to removing financial barriers and creating opportunities for all Nigerian students to thrive.