The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal following a surge in nationwide interest generated by its ongoing sensitization campaign.
The extension comes after a reminder notice last week had informed the public that the portal would close on 27 February 2026. In response to strong feedback from students and education stakeholders across the country, the Fund has approved additional days to allow all eligible students ample opportunity to complete their applications.
The extension specifically targets:
- Students needing extra time to complete their applications
- Prospective applicants who became aware of the scheme during recent nationwide engagements
- Institutions newly commencing their 2025/2026 academic session
- Institutions that have not yet submitted verified student lists
Speaking on the development, NELFUND Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access.
“Our sensitization efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation.
Therefore, in line with our mandate to expand access to tertiary education financing, we have approved this extension to ensure all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply,” Sawyerr said.
He added that institutions which have not yet commenced the 2025/2026 academic session must submit an official request for an extension, accompanied by their approved academic calendar, for consideration.
Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this window to complete their applications via the official NELFUND portal before it eventually closes.
NELFUND remains committed to transparency, accountability, and delivering sustainable student financing solutions that remove financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.
For further inquiries or information, students and institutions can reach NELFUND via:
Email: info@nelf.gov.ng
X (Twitter): @nelfund
Instagram: nelfund
Facebook & LinkedIn: Nigerian Education Loan Fund – NELFUND
Website: www.nelf.gov.ng
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