The Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced another milestone in its mission to ease financial burdens for students. As of August 9, 2025, a total of ₦100.68 million has been disbursed to 556 beneficiaries in the latest funding round. This update underscores the government’s commitment to supporting higher education and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic success.
GoldenNewsNg reports that the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELF) has successfully disbursed a total of ₦100,681,124 to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU). This significant development marks the first batch of loan payments for the 2024/2025 academic session, directly benefiting 556 students of the institution.
The loan disbursement is part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Student Loan Scheme, designed to ease the financial burden of tuition and academic expenses for Nigerian students. This initiative enables more students to focus on their studies without the constant worry of financial constraints.
In an official letter dated 17th July 2025, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, expressed the university’s gratitude to NELF for the timely intervention. She confirmed that the funds were received on June 27th, 2025, and commended the government’s commitment to empowering Nigerian students through accessible and affordable education financing.
“We are excited at this development and deeply appreciate the support extended to our students,” Prof. Omenugha stated in the acknowledgment letter.
Breakdown of the Disbursement
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Total Amount Disbursed: ₦100,681,124.00
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Number of Beneficiaries: 556 students
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Academic Session: 2024/2025 (First Batch)
This funding is expected to cover tuition and other essential academic expenses, enabling beneficiaries to concentrate on academic excellence.
Government’s Commitment to Nationwide Student Support
The disbursement to COOU is one of several across the country as part of NELF’s phased rollout of the student loan program. The initiative is designed to ensure that no willing and capable student is left behind due to financial challenges. By partnering closely with universities, the government is ensuring transparency, accountability, and swift delivery of funds.
According to NELF, more institutions are lined up to receive similar financial support in the coming weeks as part of the broader plan to empower thousands of students nationwide.
Impact on Education in Anambra State
The funding injection into COOU is particularly significant for students in Anambra State and the surrounding region. It:
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Reduces dropout rates by ensuring students can meet their tuition obligations.
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Boosts morale and academic performance as financial worries are reduced.
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Encourages more enrollments, especially from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
With the rising cost of education, such interventions are vital for sustaining Nigeria’s human capital development and economic growth.
Looking Ahead
The Nigeria Education Loan Fund reaffirmed its dedication to expanding access to quality education across Nigeria. The fund encourages beneficiaries to make the most of this opportunity by excelling academically and contributing positively to the nation’s development.
This first batch disbursement is a sign of greater things to come, as the scheme continues to scale up, touching more lives and fostering a generation of educated, empowered Nigerians.
