AKSU VC Urges Students to Embrace NELFUND

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), Professor Otoabasi Akpan, has encouraged students to take full advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) introduced by the Federal Government. He made the call during the first Parents/Stakeholders’ Forum held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the university’s Main Campus in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.

In his address, Prof. Akpan reflected on the lnstitution’s steady growth and highlighted major achievements under his leadership, including the establishment of four new faculties. He noted that the meeting focused primarily on expanding opportunities for students, with NELFUND standing out as a transformative platform for those who lack financial support to pursue higher education.

He emphasised that NELFUND was designed to remove financial barriers by providing loans and grants to eligible students and trainees. These funds cover tuition fees, institutional charges, and upkeep (living expenses) for students in universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and approved vocational or training institutions.

According to the Vice-Chancellor ,the loan repayment structure is flexible and employment-based. Graduates are granted a grace period after NYSC, after which repayment begins only when they secure a job. Unemployed graduates will have their repayment automatically deferred until they are employed.

Prof. Akpan expressed deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for his consistent support toward the advancement of the institution. He noted that AKSU remains committed to academic excellence and continues to work strategically with the state government in alignment with its ARISE Agenda. He further announced that the Parents/Stakeholders’ Forum would henceforth be held annually.

In their remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Iniobong Umotong ,the University Librarian, Prof. Nse E. Akwang, and Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Usoro, commended the Acting Vice-Chancellor for initiating the maiden Parents/Stakeholders’ Meeting. They emphasised the importance of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), reiterating that the scheme is strictly designed for students. They urged Deans, Heads of Departments, and all Academic Units to intensify sensitization so that every eligible student is well-informed and able to benefit from the opportunity.

Parents , Stakeholders and Members of Students union Executive at the meeting expressed strong support for the Acting Vice-Chancellor’s leadership and commended the initiative, describing it as a timely opportunity offered by the Federal Government

In her closing remarks, the Registrar and Secretary to Senate, Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, appreciated all attendees and encouraged parents to motivate their children and wards to utilise the opportunities provided through NELFUND and complete their registration.

In attendance were: the the Head of Campus, Obio Akpa, and Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Prof. Jemimah Ekanem; as well as Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, Directors, Teaching and Non-teaching Staff, Village Heads, Elders, and Clergy.