Northern Senators Commend FG Over 16,000 Regional Beneficiaries of Student Loan Scheme

The Northern Senators Forum has extended its gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for the successful implementation of the national student loan scheme, which has benefitted over 16,000 students from the Northern region.

In a formal letter signed by Abdul’aziz Musa Yar’adua, the chairman of the Northern Senators Forum in the 10th National Assembly, the forum recognized the significant impact of the student loan scheme across various tertiary institutions, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

“On behalf of the Northern Senators, I wish to most respectfully express our profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the entire Nigerians in the board and management of NELFUND led by Jim Ovia as chairman and Akintunde Sawyerr as MD/CEO,” the letter stated.

The forum emphasized that the student loan initiative has made a substantial difference in the educational landscape, allowing students from the Northern region to access essential funding for their studies. Notable beneficiaries include Bayero University, Kano; University of Maiduguri; and Federal University, Dustin-Ma, which collectively account for a significant portion of the 16,000 beneficiaries.

Highlighting the importance of the scheme as a national project, the Northern Senators advocated for balanced participation from all geopolitical zones in Nigeria. They acknowledged the unique challenges faced by youth in the Northern region, where issues of restiveness and extremism have persisted. The forum called on the federal government to enhance educational access for Northern youth to promote socio-economic stability and create more employment opportunities.

The letter further underscored the historical significance of the Act establishing NELFUND, noting its potential to improve living standards and alleviate poverty across Nigerian communities.

The Northern Senators commended NELFUND’s management for their dedication to fostering positive change and urged Northern state governments to collaborate with NELFUND in raising awareness of the student loan scheme within their institutions.

The forum's appeal for cooperation reflects a shared commitment to long-term educational empowerment and community development, ensuring that all Nigerian youths have access to quality education.

As the scheme continues to evolve, its long-term impact on educational access and youth empowerment in Northern Nigeria remains a priority for both lawmakers and educational leaders.