The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has commenced the payment of June and July upkeep allowances to eligible student beneficiaries across the country. This development brings relief to thousands of students enrolled in the Federal Government’s student loan scheme.
The disbursement marks the clearance of outstanding arrears for June and July 2026. Many beneficiaries had previously received their N20,000 May upkeep allowance within the last two weeks. With the latest payment, students are now receiving N40,000 covering the two outstanding months.
Students express excitement over payment
The development has sparked excitement across campuses nationwide. Beneficiaries have confirmed receipt of the funds on social media through bank alerts. Many have expressed relief after months of waiting.
Students from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education described the payment as a timely intervention. They noted that the upkeep allowance would help them meet pressing academic and personal needs. These include transportation, feeding, study materials, and other essential expenses.
Many beneficiaries praised President Bola Tinubu for introducing the student loan programme. They said the initiative has restored hope to thousands of Nigerian students. Furthermore, they noted that it has significantly eased the financial burden on parents and guardians.
Students commend NELFUND leadership
The students also commended the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr. They praised him for ensuring the release of the outstanding payments. Consequently, they described his leadership as responsive and committed to student welfare.
According to them, the simultaneous payment of June and July allowances demonstrates NELFUND’s resolve to address previous delays. This also improves the efficiency of the disbursement process.
Some beneficiaries express frustration over delays
However, some beneficiaries have complained about the prolonged delay in the disbursement of allowances. Many took to social media to express frustration over the uncertainty. Some students said the delays disrupted their plans and left them struggling.
An X user, Heis MusteeB (@haruna33704833), expressed concern about students who cannot work while studying.
“Please upkeep should be the main focus now. Imagine students on regular programme that cannot work while studying because lectures alone takes 2/3 of hours on each day… finding it difficult to study because of financial constraints. Things are hard on students pls!!” he said.
NANS assures students of full payment
Reacting, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) assured students that all outstanding backlogs would be settled. Disbursements will continue in batches.
The National President of NANS, Akinteye Afeez, said the student body had received assurances that no eligible beneficiary would be left behind.
“The payment of June and July NELFUND upkeep allowances has officially commenced,” he said.
Afeez appealed to beneficiaries yet to receive their allowances to remain calm. He explained that the payments are proceeding in batches.
Read also: FUET, NILEST confirm N91.97m NELFUND disbursement for 536 students
