President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has revealed that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has provided financial assistance to 600,000 students, amounting to N104 billion, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s education sector.
Tinubu made the announcement during the 42nd Founders’ Day and 33rd Convocation Ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Minna.
He stated that the financial support is part of his administration’s commitment to making education more accessible and affordable for Nigerians.
“The NELFUND programme aims to provide financial support to students, bridging the gap between financial challenges and access to higher education,” Tinubu said.
“With this significant investment, the government is empowering students to pursue their academic dreams, driving human capital development, and fostering a knowledge-driven society.”
The president also highlighted that the government has allocated N940.5 billion to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) in the 2025 budget, underscoring his administration’s focus on improving educational infrastructure and manpower.
Tinubu, represented by Hajiya Rakiya Gambo Iliyasu, Director of Universities at the Federal Ministry of Education, reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the challenges facing the education sector.
He specifically mentioned ongoing efforts to ensure industrial harmony in universities and the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement with university staff unions to resolve salary issues.
These steps, he added, are key to achieving stability in Nigeria’s higher education system.
“As we continue to prioritise education, Nigerian students can look forward to a brighter future, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary to drive innovation, economic growth, and national development,” Tinubu stated.
The event also saw the conferment of honorary degrees to prominent figures, including Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who received an honorary doctorate in Agriculture.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State was awarded a degree in Entrepreneurship, while Senator Muhammad Sani Musa, representing Niger East senatorial district, was honoured with a degree in Technology.
Governor Bago, speaking shortly after receiving his honorary degree, reiterated his administration’s commitment to making education accessible to all Nigerians. He also announced a donation of N100 million to the endowment fund established by Senator Musa, who had previously donated N200 million.
Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, Vice Chancellor of FUT Minna, praised the university’s continued excellence in science, engineering, technology, and innovation.
He emphasised that the institution would not compromise on its standards as it continues to grow as a leading centre for technological education in Nigeria.
The event marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s educational development and showcased the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure the growth and sustainability of the sector.
