WorldStage– The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a government-backed initiative providing interest-free loans to Nigerian students in public tertiary institutions, has disbursed to the students of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) in Katsina State the sum of ₦80,000 covering four months’ upkeep arrears.
This was announced by Muhammad Nagaske, Convener of Dikko Student Care and
Special Assistant on Student Matters to Katsina State Governor.
NELFUND aims to eliminate financial barriers to higher education and skills development, managed via an online portal.
Students of the university had earlier complained about delays in receiving the stipend, leading to tension and demands for payment.
The Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, expressed the Fund’s commitment to resolving all challenges affecting the disbursement process to ensure the smooth continuation of the programme.
Alongside the upkeep payment, a joint committee between FUDMA management and the Student Union Government (SUG) has been working to resolve tuition refund issues for over 3,100 students who paid their fees before NELFUND payments arrived.
“Today,” Nagaske said, “we were at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma alongside the Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Akintunde Sawyer, for a sensitization programme on registration guidelines and student support, with a focus on the disbursement of monthly upkeep.”
According to him, the intervention not only addresses immediate financial needs but also restores confidence, eases hardship, and reinforces students’ belief in the future of education in Nigeria, adding that the initiative reflects a responsive government that listens, understands, and stands firmly with its students.
“We are committed to resolving all challenges affecting the programme,” NELFUND Managing Director assured, emphasizing that all concerns raised will receive prompt attention.
Appreciating the Fund further, Nagaske said: “As Special Assistant on Students’ Matters, I commend the NELFUND team for their dedication, responsiveness, and sustained commitment to supporting students across Katsina State.
“I also appreciate the Vice-Chancellor and management of Federal University Dutsin-Ma for their support and warm reception.
“Special appreciation to my Principal His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda Ph.D., CON, whose visionary leadership continues to create opportunities that uplift and empower students in Katsina State.
“I also commend His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for this transformative initiative. With over ₦245 billion disbursed and more than one million Nigerian students benefiting, the programme has become a lifeline—turning aspirations into reality.
“To my team in Katsina, thank you for your tireless efforts, loyalty, and commitment. Together, we will continue to stand for our students and ensure that no one is left behind.”
