The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS has expressed concern over the prolonged delay in the disbursement of students’ upkeep allowances under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND scheme, warning that continued inaction could trigger nationwide peaceful protests by students.
In a statement issued on Friday, NANS President, Dist. Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, said the association had received numerous complaints from beneficiaries across the country regarding the non-payment of upkeep allowances for the past two months.
According to him, the delay has created anxiety and hardship for students who depend on the allowances to support their academic and daily living expenses.
Akinteye described the situation as unacceptable, stressing that the NELFUND initiative was established to provide financial relief to Nigerian students, especially amid prevailing economic challenges.
He called on the Managing Director of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, and the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, to urgently address the issues responsible for the delay and ensure the immediate release of all outstanding payments.
NANS also demanded a clear explanation from the relevant authorities regarding the suspension of disbursements.
The students’ body warned that failure to resolve the matter promptly could leave students with no option but to embark on peaceful mass action, including the occupation of the NELFUND headquarters, until concrete measures are taken to address their concerns.
The association, however, emphasized that its position should not be viewed as a threat but as a reflection of the growing frustration among affected students.
Akinteye reaffirmed NANS’ commitment to protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerian students and pledged to continue advocating for policies and actions that support their academic success and well-being.
