Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has advised parents and guardians across Nigeria to properly educate and guide their children about the opportunities available under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), an initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration designed to make higher education more accessible to Nigerian students.

Unfortunately, many Nigerians are still not adequately informed about this important programme and how it can assist students who are struggling financially to pursue their education.

Recent findings from Ogwuash-Uku Polytechnic indicate that fewer than 100 students may have applied for NELFUND, despite the fact that a significant number of students in the area face serious financial difficulties in meeting their educational expenses. This situation should concern parents, community leaders and political stakeholders across the country.

The question is simple, If an opportunity exists to support our children’s education system, why should they abandon school simply because their parents cannot afford the cost?

Through NELFUND, eligible Nigerian students can access financial support for their education. The programme also provides an approved ₦20,000 monthly upkeep allowance to eligible beneficiaries who apply for the upkeep component.

This is a Federal Government intervention designed to assist students who may otherwise struggle to remain in school because of financial constraints. Therefore, more awareness must be created at the grassroots.

Parents and guardians have a major responsibility to educate their children about NELFUND, guide them through the application process and encourage eligible students to take advantage of the opportunity.

The APC, as the ruling party, should also continue to take the message to the grassroots. Party leaders, ward executives, youth leaders and community stakeholders can play an important role by educating young Nigerians about programmes that directly affect their future.

We must understand that lack of access to education can have serious consequences for our young people. When young Nigerians feel that education is beyond their reach because of financial hardship, some may become vulnerable to drug abuse, criminal activities and other social vices.

That is why every genuine opportunity that keeps our young people in school should be embraced, promoted and properly explained.

Education is an investment in the future.

Ekwueme, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, therefore calls on parents, guardians, community leaders, political leaders and other stakeholders to intensify awareness about NELFUND.

Our children must be properly educated, adequately informed and carefully guided so that lack of information does not deprive them of an opportunity that could change their lives.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has opened another pathway for Nigerian students to pursue their educational aspirations. Let us ensure that eligible students know about NELFUND and make responsible use of the opportunity.

We must take this message from the cities to the villages, from the LGAs to the wards, and from the wards down to every community and household.

NELFUND, Supporting Students. Expanding Access. Investing in Nigeria’s Future.