NELFUND Acts Against Institutions Withholding Loan Refunds

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has initiated a crackdown on tertiary institutions that are reportedly withholding refunds owed to students under the federal government's student loan scheme. NELFUND issued a public notice condemning the arbitrary increase in tuition fees charged by these institutions, which contradicts the objectives of the student loan program.

The organization expressed concern over delays and outright refusals by some institutions to refund tuition fees already paid by students, despite NELFUND having disbursed these funds. The student loan scheme, introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, is designed to remove financial barriers to higher education and prevent additional financial burdens on students.

NELFUND is engaging relevant authorities to ensure eligible students receive their refunds and that institutions maintain fairness and transparency in their charges. This intervention follows numerous complaints from beneficiaries regarding the failure of institutions to refund tuition fees, prompting NELFUND to adopt a tougher enforcement stance to protect student interests.