The Edo State Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), held a stakeholders’ engagement session at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City. The event focused on educating the public on how students in Edo State can access the federal government’s interest-free education loan scheme, ensuring that financial difficulties don’t stop anyone from getting an education.
The Executive Chairman of Edo SUBEB, Barr. Mrs. Onomen Briggs, emphasized the importance of NELFUND in securing the future of Nigerian children. She praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for launching the initiative and Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo for bringing it to Edo State.
“This program is a game-changer,” she said. “A child in primary school today can be confident that secondary and university education are within reach. No one should miss out on education because of money.”
She encouraged people to spread the word. “Tell somebody to tell somebody about NELFUND. If you meet the criteria, you are guaranteed funding for your education,” she added.
The event had key stakeholders in attendance, including Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who represented Governor Okpebholo; Dr. Paddy Emmanuel Iyamu, Commissioner for Education; and Mr. Akintunde Oluwole Sawyer, Managing Director of NELFUND.
Mr. Sawyer explained how students can apply, who is eligible, and how the scheme will help ease financial burdens. “This initiative removes financial barriers so students can focus on learning without worrying about tuition fees,” he said.
A Q&A session followed, where attendees got answers about loan applications, eligibility, and repayment. The event left participants hopeful and reassured that NELFUND is a real opportunity for students in Edo State.
Edo State is taking bold steps to ensure that financial struggles no longer stand in the way of education!