Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) Warns Tertiary Institutions Over Student Loan Refunds and Unfair Tuition Charges

 

Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) Warns Tertiary Institutions Over Student Loan Refunds and Unfair Tuition Charges

Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) Warns Tertiary Institutions Over Student Loan Refunds and Unfair Tuition Charges

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has issued a public notice condemning unethical practices by some tertiary institutions regarding the implementation of the Federal Government's Student Loan Scheme.

According to the statement released on Monday, 29th June 2026, NELFUND expressed concern over reports that some institutions are refusing or delaying refunds to students whose school fees had already been paid before NELFUND released loan payments.

NELFUND Raises Concern Over Student Loan Implementation

NELFUND stated that it has received complaints that some universities, polytechnics, and colleges are:

• Delaying the refund of tuition fees to eligible students.

• Refusing to refund students after receiving NELFUND payments.

• Increasing tuition fees and other institutional charges without proper justification.

The agency described these actions as unfair and against the purpose of the Student Loan Scheme.

Purpose of the Student Loan Scheme

NELFUND explained that the Student Loan Scheme was introduced by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove financial barriers to higher education.

The programme is designed to help Nigerian students pay their tuition fees and continue their education without unnecessary financial hardship.

According to the agency, the scheme should not be used as an excuse to create additional financial burdens for students.

NELFUND to Engage Affected Institutions

NELFUND announced that it is already working with the affected tertiary institutions and relevant government authorities to address the reported issues.

The agency said its goal is to ensure that:

• Eligible students receive refunds where necessary.

• Tuition and other institutional charges remain fair and transparent.

• Schools comply with the objectives of the Student Loan Scheme.

Commitment to Protecting Students

NELFUND reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian students.

The agency stated that it will continue to monitor the implementation of the Student Loan Scheme and ensure that institutions follow the approved guidelines.

It also promised to preserve the integrity of the programme so that it continues to benefit students across the country.

What This Means for Students

Students who applied for and received the NELFUND loan should:

• Confirm that their institution has received the loan payment.

• Follow up with their school if they paid tuition before the loan was disbursed.

• Keep all payment receipts and relevant documents.

• Report any verified issues through the appropriate NELFUND communication channels.

Important Advice

Students are advised to remain calm and rely only on official information from NELFUND and their institutions. They should avoid misinformation and ensure they follow the proper procedures when making enquiries about refunds or tuition payments.

Conclusion

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has warned tertiary institutions against delaying or refusing tuition fee refunds to eligible students and against imposing unfair increases in school charges. The agency says it is working with affected institutions to resolve the issues and ensure that the Student Loan Scheme continues to provide financial support to Nigerian students as intended.

Students are encouraged to stay informed through official NELFUND announcements and keep all relevant records while the matter is being addressed.