The National Assembly South East caucus expressed concern about the exclusion of beneficiaries from South East tertiary institutions in the disbursement of student loans by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which is currently ongoing.
Out of the N2.9 billion loan meant to support students across the country, 27,667 students have benefited from 19 institutions, none of which are located in the South East region.
According to NELFUND, the non-inclusion of South East tertiary institutions is due to their failure to comply with verification requirements, a prerequisite for student eligibility.
The South East caucus called on regional institutions to promptly comply with NELFUND’s verification demands, emphasizing the importance of such loans in addressing financial challenges in tertiary education.
Leaders of the South East Senate Caucus, Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Leader of the South East Caucus of the House of Representatives, Igariwey Iduma Enwo, jointly stated: “We must demand our rightful share of opportunities, ensuring equal access to education for all Nigerians throughout our lifetime.”
Additionally, they encouraged students from the region to utilize the loan scheme, promoting inclusivity and equal representation in national initiatives.