NELFUND: Everything You Need to Know About the Nigerian Education Loan Fund
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund, widely known as NELFUND, is one of the most important initiatives introduced by the Federal Government to expand access to higher education and vocational training. As school fees continue to rise, thousands of students now rely on the program to fund their studies, cover upkeep, and pursue skills training without financial stress.
This blog post explains what NELFUND is, how it works, eligibility, challenges, and the latest updates for 2025.
What Is NELFUND?
NELFUND is a government-backed educational financing scheme created under the Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024. The program provides interest-free loans to Nigerians studying in universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and accredited vocational centers.
Its main goal is to ensure that no Nigerian is denied education because of financial challenges.
How NELFUND Works
The fund supports students in two major areas:
1. Tuition Fees
NELFUND pays school charges directly to institutions. This prevents misuse and ensures that every beneficiary’s fees are fully settled.
2. Upkeep Allowance
Beneficiaries also receive a monthly allowance to take care of:
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Feeding
- Study materials
This helps students focus on learning instead of struggling with daily survival.
New Additions for 2025
NELFUND is expanding beyond traditional higher institutions. A new program now covers vocational and technical training, including skills such as:
- Fashion design
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- ICT & digital skills
- Mechanical/automotive work
- The pilot phase began in Enugu State, with plans to extend it nationwide.
Funding and Transparency
NELFUND receives funding from:
Federal Government allocations
Recovered government funds (including contributions released by EFCC)
A portion of Nigeria’s new Development Levy
The agency also assures the public that its loan system is fully automated, meaning disbursements are time-stamped, digital, and free from human interference.
To avoid fraud, the only official portal for application is: https://www.nelf.gov.ng
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for a NELFUND loan, a student must:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Be admitted into an accredited tertiary or vocational institution
- Have a valid National Identity Number (NIN)
- Provide required documents such as admission letter and institution details
- There is no requirement for collateral or a guarantor, making the program accessible to everyone.
Common Challenges & Controversies
Like any major program, NELFUND faces some issues:
1. Fake Websites and Scammers
Many fake Facebook pages and websites pretend to represent NELFUND. Applicants must verify links before submitting information.
2. Discrepancies in Disbursement Reports
There have been public discussions between the agency and anti-corruption bodies over figures released. NELFUND insists its records are transparent and verifiable.
3. Unauthorized Deductions
Some institutions were reported to have deducted extra charges from students’ loan funds, prompting investigations by the Ministry of Education.
Why NELFUND Matters
NELFUND has the potential to:
- Reduce financial pressure on students
- Encourage more Nigerians to pursue higher education
- Support youths in acquiring practical job-ready skills
- Boost national productivity through better-trained graduates and artisans
- With proper oversight and continuous improvement, the fund will remain a major pillar of Nigeria’s education sector.
Final Thoughts
NELFUND is a powerful opportunity for students who cannot afford rising educational costs. Whether you are pursuing a degree or a skill, the program provides a pathway to quality learning without financial worry. As the program expands in 2025, staying updated and using only the official application portal is crucial.
