ESCET Students Face Examination Ban Over NELFUND Loan Application Directive
Enugu State College of Education (Technical), Enugu (ESCET), has sparked controversy after reportedly directing all NCE and degree students to apply for the Federal Government’s NELFUND student loan for the 2026/2027 academic session.
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Enugu State College of Education (Technical) reportedly makes NELFUND loan applications compulsory for all NCE and degree students, sparking controversy over possible exam bans.
Controversy has erupted at Enugu State College of Education (Technical), Enugu (ESCET), after management reportedly made applying for the Federal Government’s NELFUND loan compulsory for all NCE and degree students, with non-compliance potentially leading to examination bans.
In a memo dated October 6, 2026, Acting Registrar Patrick A. Aneke stated: “This is the bring to the knowledge of all College students and indeed the College Community that it is now compulsory for every student (both in NCE and Degree programmes) to enroll and access the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund).”
The memo directed fresh and returning students to apply through the college’s NELFUND desk officer, Dr. Rufina Agu, for the 2026/2027 academic session.
The directive sparked heated exchanges in a WhatsApp group, where Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Bertrand Ekwe, reportedly confirmed that a NELFUND receipt was required for examination clearance.
When a student asked what would happen if their parents refused to allow them to apply, the account identified as the dean’s replied: “Then it might be very difficult for you to continue in ESCET.”
Asked whether students without the receipt would be barred from examinations, the dean reportedly responded: “Yes for now or if management change their decision.”
The dean also allegedly warned a member criticising the policy: “Don’t discourage others through this platform. We promote State Government interest here. If you continue, I will remove you.”
Some students argued that the loan should remain optional, with one message stating: “In as much we are supporting nelfund-loan, it shouldn’t be compulsory for all the students, nelfund loan was established for the less privileged students.”
The message also alleged that school fees of ₦8,500 were being displayed as ₦9,500 on some NELFUND dashboards.
Affected students are reportedly calling on management to review the directive and allow those who prefer to pay their fees directly to continue their studies
