The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, has praised Sokoto State University (SSU) for its outstanding role in the implementation of the Federal Government’s student loan programme.
Sawyerr made the commendation during a courtesy visit to the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Bello Yerima, and members of the institution’s management team on Thursday.
Speaking during the visit, the NELFUND boss explained that although his team was in Sokoto for an official engagement, it was important to acknowledge the university’s contribution to the success of the student loan initiative.
He noted that Sokoto State University attracted national attention when students openly celebrated the receipt of their loan disbursements, with videos of the celebrations gaining widespread traction on social media.
According to Sawyerr, the viral videos provided tangible evidence that the programme is achieving its objective of supporting students and removing financial barriers to higher education.
“The reaction of the students at Sokoto State University gave us immense satisfaction. The videos that circulated online reassured Nigerians that the programme is working and that beneficiaries are receiving the support intended for them,” he said.
He further commended the university’s management for its efficient handling of matters relating to student beneficiaries and for ensuring the smooth execution of the scheme on campus. He urged the institution to sustain its efforts in supporting students who rely on the intervention to pursue their academic aspirations.
Sawyerr reiterated NELFUND’s commitment to expanding access to higher education through financial assistance, describing the initiative as a critical component of the Federal Government’s strategy to make tertiary education more accessible to all Nigerians.
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Yerima, expressed appreciation to the NELFUND delegation for the visit and lauded the Fund’s impact on Nigeria’s education sector.
He described the student loan programme as a major relief for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds who often struggle with the financial demands of higher education.
Prof. Yerima said the scheme has become a beacon of hope for many young Nigerians, empowering them to pursue their educational goals and prepare for future opportunities.
The Vice-Chancellor also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the programme and ensuring that eligible students continue to benefit from the initiative.
The visit reinforced the partnership between NELFUND and Sokoto State University, with both institutions reaffirming their shared commitment to widening educational access and empowering Nigerian students through sustainable funding opportunities.
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