The National Association of Nigerian Students has voiced concern over the alleged non-disbursement of student loans by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, despite claims that funds have already been released.
PUNCH online reports that an investigation into the handling of the Federal Government’s student loan programme revealed that some tertiary institutions, in collaboration with banks, are allegedly withholding disbursed loans from students.
The findings were presented by the Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers of the National Orientation Agency, following reports of unethical practices.
The issue came to light during a meeting between the Director General of NOA, Mallam Issa-Onilu, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, over the weekend.
In a statement signed by the agency Spokesman, Paul Odenyi, NELFUND alleged that several institutions have failed to inform students about loan disbursements made on their behalf, while still demanding tuition payments.
Reacting to the revelation, the NANS National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi, in a statement on Wednesday, described such practices as “deceptive and a betrayal of trust by the universities.”
Adeyemi noted that such practices could further compound the challenges faced by Nigerian students.
He continued, “These actions, which include failing to inform students about loan disbursements and demanding tuition payments despite receiving funds, are not only deceptive but also a betrayal of the trust placed in these institutions.
“NANS views these practices as a direct attack on the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, many of whom rely on these loans to access higher education and alleviate financial burdens.
“Such actions exacerbate the challenges faced by students and undermine the federal government’s efforts to provide accessible education through the student loan programme.”
The student’s body warned institutions that may be engaging in such practices to desist, as it would not hesitate to protest against any institution found culpable.
NANS urged the affected students to report any such cases to its leadership in their respective states.
“NANS will not hesitate to take decisive action, including mobilising protests and legal measures, to ensure that students receive the financial support they are entitled to.
“Furthermore, we call on the relevant authorities, including NELFUND and the National Orientation Agency, to intensify their efforts in investigating and addressing these malpractices.
“NANS remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of students across the nation. We urge all affected students to report any irregularities to the NANS leadership in their state and assure them of our unwavering support in this fight for justice,” Adeyemi concluded.
