The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has reacted after Enugu State College of Education (Technical) made NELFUND loan compulsory for all its students.
In a memo dated October 6, 2026, the college management directed all fresh and returning students in NCE and Degree programmes to apply for the Federal Government student loan for the 2026/2027 academic session.
The memo, signed by the Acting Registrar, Patrick Aneke, said every student must visit the office of the NELFUND Desk Officer, Dr Rufina Agu, to apply for the loan. The college also told Deans, Heads of Department and SUG to inform all students about the directive.
This order caused confusion and anger among students, with many questioning why they should be forced to take a loan they will have to repay.
Reacting to the controversy, NELFUND clarified on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, that the student loan is voluntary and not compulsory.
In a statement signed by its Director of Strategic Communications, Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, in Abuja, NELFUND said the loan was created to remove financial barriers and help only students who genuinely need financial support.
The Fund stressed that students who can afford to pay their school fees are under no obligation to apply.
According to NELFUND, "The student loan scheme is a support mechanism, not an obligation."
The agency also reminded students that although the loan is interest-free, it must be repaid according to the Student Loans Act. Students are advised to read and understand the terms before applying.
NELFUND urged schools and student leaders to give students correct information and not force anyone to borrow.
The NELFUND portal for the 2026/2027 session is still open for applications via https://nelf.gov.ng
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