Edo State Pushes for Wider Awareness of NELFUND: SUBEB Chairman Calls for Action
2 min read
By Joy Richardson
Benin City, March 13, 2025
The Edo State Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), hosted a stakeholders’ engagement session at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City. The event aimed to educate the public on how students in Edo State can access the federal government’s interest-free education loan scheme, ensuring that no child is denied education due to financial challenges.
The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Barr. Mrs. Onomen Briggs, highlighted the importance of NELFUND in shaping 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. “It means a child in primary school today can be confident that secondary school and even university education are within reach. No one should miss out on education because of money.”
She urged everyone to spread the word about the scheme. “Tell somebody to tell somebody about NELFUND. If you meet the criteria, you are guaranteed funding for your education,” she emphasized.
The event gathered key education stakeholders, 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 ease financial burdens. “This initiative removes financial barriers so students can focus on learning without worrying about tuition fees,” he stated.
The session ended with a Q&A segment, where attendees got answers to their concerns about loan applications, eligibility, and repayment. The event left participants hopeful and reassured that NELFUND is a real opportunity for students in Edo State.
With strong leadership and collaboration, Edo State is making sure that financial struggles will no longer stand in the way of education.
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