NELFUND 2026: Enugu Launches Fresh Push for More Beneficiaries as Mbah Hosts NELFUND MD, VCs, Rectors, ProvostsFrom application and verification to disbursement, Enugu Government mobilises tertiary institutions to ensure more eligible students benefit from the Federal Government’s education financing scheme.

The Enugu State Government has intensified efforts to increase students’ participation in the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) Education Support Programme, with tertiary institutions across the state directed to step up mobilisation and support for eligible beneficiaries.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah on Monday, August 10, 2026, hosted a strategic sensitisation and implementation meeting with the Executive Management of NELFUND, led by its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Akintunde Sawyerr.

The meeting brought together Vice Chancellors, Rectors, Provosts and senior representatives of tertiary institutions across Enugu State.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Enugu State Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Enugu MSME & Startup Agency, is designed to ensure that eligible students are adequately informed about the Federal Government's education financing programme and receive the necessary assistance to complete their applications and verification.

Government Targets Low NELFUND Uptake

The state government said the intervention was prompted by the relatively low uptake of NELFUND support among students in Enugu State and the wider South-East.

Under the new strategy, tertiary institutions are expected to adopt an institution-by-institution approach to identify and mobilise eligible students while addressing misconceptions surrounding the programme.

Institutions are also expected to assist students throughout the application and verification processes to ensure that eligible beneficiaries are not left behind.

NELFUND Offers Financial Relief to Students

The NELFUND programme provides eligible students with financial support for approved school fees and upkeep, helping to reduce the financial burden on students and their families.

The scheme is also designed to support student retention and enable tertiary institutions to receive approved fees through the programme.

Governor Mbah stressed the need for institutions across the state to fully key into the initiative by establishing dedicated NELFUND support desks, mobilising eligible students and ensuring that applications are processed and verified promptly.

According to the governor, the broader objective is to expand access to education and ensure that no eligible student is excluded from available educational financing opportunities because of lack of information or difficulty navigating the application process.

Students Urged to Apply

The Enugu State Government consequently urged students in public tertiary institutions across the state to take advantage of the NELFUND programme and complete their applications through the official NELFUND portal.

The latest move is expected to significantly increase awareness and participation among Enugu students as the state intensifies efforts to improve access to educational opportunities and reduce financial barriers confronting students and their families.

© SPOTLIGHT ONLINE NEWS