NELFUND Clarifies September 2025 Student Loan Upkeep Disbursement
GoldenNewsNg reports that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has provided an update on the disbursement of upkeep allowances for September 2025 under the ongoing student loan scheme. While several beneficiaries have confirmed receiving their payments, others continue to report delays that have persisted for several months.
In a statement released by its management, NELFUND explained that the discrepancies are partly linked to the academic calendars of various institutions. According to the agency, upkeep payments are tied strictly to active academic sessions.
“If a student’s academic session has ended, upkeep disbursement will not continue. Beneficiaries in such situations are expected to reapply for the new session in order to maintain eligibility for subsequent upkeep,” the management clarified.
Student Complaints Over Delays
Despite assurances, some students have expressed frustration at not receiving their allowances for several months. Complaints have surfaced across social platforms and student unions, with affected beneficiaries calling for faster resolution and more transparent communication.
Meanwhile, other students from universities and polytechnics currently in session have confirmed receiving their September upkeep, indicating that disbursements are ongoing but not uniform across all institutions.
Next Steps for Beneficiaries
NELFUND urged students to verify the status of their academic sessions and ensure their institutions have uploaded updated records to the student loan platform. Failure to update enrollment details could result in disbursement delays or suspension until a new session is confirmed.
The agency also reassured beneficiaries that it remains committed to sustaining the program and addressing technical bottlenecks. It encouraged students who have not received their allowances despite being in session to lodge official complaints through designated NELFUND support channels.
Broader Context
The student loan initiative, launched in 2024, was designed to expand access to higher education and ease the financial burden on undergraduates across Nigerian institutions. While tuition support has been widely acknowledged, upkeep allowances remain a crucial component for students who rely on the fund for living and study-related expenses.
As the September disbursement unfolds, NELFUND’s clarification underscores the importance of aligning academic session records with funding cycles. For thousands of students awaiting payment, the coming weeks will determine how quickly unresolved cases are addressed.
