Atiku Vows to Review NELFUND, Offer Debt Forgiveness to Nigerian Students

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to review the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, and introduce a debt forgiveness policy for Nigerian students if elected president.

Speaking on education financing and youth empowerment, Atiku said the current student loan structure needs to be made more accessible, sustainable and student-friendly to expand access to tertiary education across the country.

He stated that many young Nigerians are struggling with the cost of education, and that a review of NELFUND would focus on reducing repayment burdens, improving disbursement processes, and ensuring that no qualified student is denied the opportunity to study due to lack of funds.

According to him, part of the proposed reform would include debt forgiveness provisions for beneficiaries who meet certain criteria, particularly those who go into public service, teaching, healthcare, agriculture and other critical sectors after graduation.

“Nigerian students deserve a system that supports them, not one that traps them in debt,” Atiku said. “We will review NELFUND to make it work better, and we will consider targeted debt forgiveness to give graduates a fair chance to start their careers and contribute to nation building.”

He added that his administration would also work to strengthen funding for public universities and polytechnics, improve learning infrastructure, and deepen partnerships with the private sector to create more opportunities for students.

The pledge comes amid ongoing discussions on the implementation and impact of NELFUND since its rollout, with stakeholders calling for clearer guidelines, faster disbursement, and better support structures for beneficiaries.

Atiku said education remains the bedrock of national development, and that investing in students is investing in Nigeria’s future.