Benin City, Nigeria – The University of Benin has confirmed the receipt of N24.4 million intended for 332 of its students under the Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) scheme. The confirmation was made in a letter signed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Lilian Salami, and was sighted by our correspondent on Thursday.
In the letter dated August 11, 2024, and addressed to the Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, Prof. Salami expressed the university’s gratitude for the funds, which are designated for the payment of school charges and upkeep for the selected students.
“I write to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the sum of Twenty-Four Million, Four Hundred and Twelve Thousand, Five Hundred Naira (N24,412,500), being the payment of school charges and upkeep for Three Hundred and Thirty-Two (332) Students of the University of Benin who have applied for a loan under the Nigerian Education Loans Fund Scheme,” Salami stated.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance the standard of education in Nigeria, noting that the university is committed to the academic success of its students.
“The University Management appreciates the Fund’s consideration of our students’ applications and assures you of our commitment to the academic success of these students. The University commends the laudable effort of the Federal Government to raise the standard of the students and the tertiary education system,” she added.
The student loan scheme is a key initiative under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aimed at supporting indigent or low-income Nigerians in accessing higher education. Shortly after his inauguration, President Tinubu signed the Access to Higher Education Act, which established a legal framework for providing loans to students in need, thereby facilitating the payment of their fees in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The University of Benin’s acknowledgment of this significant financial aid highlights the Federal Government’s commitment to improving access to education for all Nigerians, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative is expected to have a substantial impact on the educational prospects of thousands of students nationwide.
