Manny Ita –
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has announced a fresh extension of the application deadline for its student loan programme for the 2025/2026 academic session, in a move aimed at accommodating a broader pool of applicants across the country.
In a statement released on Friday, the Fund said the decision followed continued feedback from prospective beneficiaries and stakeholders who requested additional time to complete their applications and resolve technical or documentation challenges.
Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, said the extension underscores the agency’s commitment to inclusivity and equal access to higher education financing. “We have listened carefully to the concerns raised by students and institutions, and it is only fair that we allow more time for eligible Nigerians to take advantage of this opportunity,” he stated.
He emphasized that the student loan initiative remains a critical pillar of the Federal Government’s education reform agenda, designed to remove financial barriers and expand access to tertiary education. “This programme is about ensuring that no qualified Nigerian student is denied education due to lack of funds,” Sawyerr added.
The Fund did not specify a final closing date in the announcement but assured applicants that the revised deadline would provide sufficient time for all interested candidates to complete the process without undue pressure.
NELFUND also urged applicants to ensure that all required documentation is properly submitted and verified through its official portal, noting that incomplete or inaccurate entries could delay approval. “We encourage students to make use of the extension responsibly by submitting complete and accurate applications,” the statement said.
Since its rollout, the loan scheme has recorded significant interest nationwide, with thousands of students applying for financial support to cover tuition and other academic-related expenses. The initiative is part of broader efforts by the administration to strengthen human capital development and reduce the financial strain on families.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the extension, describing it as a necessary step to ensure wider participation, particularly for students in underserved areas who may face logistical or technological challenges during the application process.
Reiterating its commitment to transparency and efficiency, the Fund assured applicants that all submissions would be processed fairly and in line with established guidelines. “NELFUND remains dedicated to delivering a credible and accessible student loan system that meets the needs of Nigerian students,” Sawyerr said.
