NANS Raises Alarm Over Delay in NELFUND Upkeep Payments, Warns of Possible Student Protest
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed concern over the reported delay in the payment of students' upkeep allowances under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), calling on the Federal Government and relevant authorities to urgently resolve the issue.
In a statement issued on June 20, 2026, the association said it has received numerous complaints from students across the country who are beneficiaries of the NELFUND scheme. According to NANS, many recipients have reportedly not received their upkeep allowances for approximately two months.
The association noted that the primary objective of the NELFUND programme is to ease the financial burden on students by providing accessible educational support. It added that any prolonged delay in disbursement undermines the purpose of the initiative and negatively affects thousands of beneficiaries nationwide.
NANS therefore appealed to the Managing Director of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, and the relevant government authorities to investigate the cause of the delay and ensure that all outstanding upkeep allowances are paid without further postponement.
Key Demands by NANS
- Immediate payment of all outstanding NELFUND upkeep allowances.
- Prompt intervention by the Federal Government and relevant agencies.
- Clear communication with students regarding the reason for the delay.
- Implementation of measures to prevent future payment disruptions.
The student body further warned that failure to address the situation within the shortest possible time could result in peaceful nationwide demonstrations by Nigerian students. According to the statement, the proposed actions may include a peaceful occupation of the NELFUND headquarters until concrete steps are taken to resolve the issue.
NANS maintained that its position should not be interpreted as a threat but as a reflection of the growing frustration among students who depend on the scheme for their academic and personal welfare.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian students and pledged to continue engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure that the objectives of the NELFUND programme are achieved.
The statement was signed by the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Distinguished Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (GCNS).
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