You Do Not Need To Have Connections To Get A Student Loan In Nigeria - Fred Femi Akinfala

It must be emphasized at this point that every eligible student is equal, and no one needs to have a ‘godfather’ or unique connections in society to access the student loan… Instead, what is essential is for an applicant to meet the laid-down criteria and eligibility requirements for the student loan. These are ensuring, as an applicant, you are enrolled in a federal or state tertiary institution, and possess a letter of admission from the statutory Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, a Biometric Verification Number (BVN) and a National Identification Number (NIN).

I believe that by the time President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be completing his entire constitutionally allowable tenures in 2031, the students’ loan initiative, being managed by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), would be among his best-celebrated achievements.

I am convinced that in several months from now, the initiative will be recorded as the most revolutionary policy regarding tertiary education in Nigeria. This is because the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), among other benefits, would help Nigerian students create a safe pathway from financial challenges to attaining their educational pursuits. The result will be that student retention and completion rates will increase, and so will the number of skilled talents in the economy.

It is for this reason, and in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, that the management of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) is committed and dedicated to creating an open, fair, and transparent student loan application process. The openness in the student loan scheme’s administration means that students can easily apply for student loan online, submit, and track a student loan request through the same process, which means that there is nothing anyone, including officials of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), can do to manipulate the student loan application process for self-advantage.

Already, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), has gathered current students’ information, involving the federal universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and technical colleges in Nigeria. The same process now applies to state-owned tertiary institutions, which will commence on Tuesday, the 28th of June.

It must be emphasized at this point that every eligible student is equal, and no one needs to have a ‘godfather’ or unique connections in society to access the student loan.

As a fact, it is not for nothing that the NELFUND’s management has taken steps to foster public trust, inclusion, and sustainable reputational capital. It is also worth noting that the agency has instituted solid corporate governance, supported and overseen by its equally dedicated governing board, led by respected banker and Zenith Bank Plc founder, Mr Jim Ovia.

Instead, what is essential is for an applicant to meet the laid-down criteria and eligibility requirements. These are ensuring, as an applicant, you are enrolled in a federal or state tertiary institution, and possess a letter of admission from the statutory Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, a Biometric Verification Number (BVN) and a National Identification Number (NIN). The simplification of the student loan process and its accessibility to the public are to clear ambiguity or a perception of bias in selecting successful student loan applications.

As a fact, it is not for nothing that the NELFUND’s management has taken steps to foster public trust, inclusion, and sustainable reputational capital. It is also worth noting that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), has instituted solid corporate governance, supported and overseen by its equally dedicated governing board, led by respected banker and Zenith Bank Plc founder, Mr Jim Ovia. In the same vein, the management, led by its Managing Director, Mr Akintunde Sawyerr, has declared zero tolerance for corruption and corrupt practices within and outside the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

For Akintunde Sawyerr, pilfering funds meant to empower students is egregious and an unpardonable sin. Akintunde Sawyerr once related an intriguing story to me about some burglars in the United Kingdom who seemed to make it a rule among them not to take anything belonging to children.

Despite their depravity, it was a creed among them (burglars). Mr Akintunde Sawyerr told me, by the same token, that even the most depraved person, if appointed into a position of trust and to protect children’s welfare, must eschew committing such atrocious sin against them.

The task before the NELFUND management is to ensure the corrupt-free management of the interest-free student loan scheme to millions of students from the sixty two federal and sixty three state universities in the country.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/opinion/700264-you-dont-need-a-godfather-to-get-a-student-loan-in-nigeria-by-fred-femi-akinfala.html

Student Loan Will Eliminate Dropouts - Ayodele Olawande

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has said the student loan is for youths to access interest-free facility.

Ayodele Olawande, told News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Abuja it was part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to carry youths along.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, stated that with the student loan, undergraduates would no longer drop out of school because of financial limitations.

“If the President said a child will not drop out of school because he or she is not able to pay school fees, I think that is a big plus,” Ayodele Olawande said.

Ayodele Olawande called for an enabling environment for young Nigerians to thrive and achieve their goals in life.

According to Ayodele Olawande, the country has more than 60% of young people; hence, with an enabling environment, much can be achieved.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the ministry was making critical decisions and suggestions while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made sure they were put into action.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the student loan had an agency and a chairman, adding students could access the portal at https://nelf.gov.ng

“You don’t need to know anybody; just go and apply. They will put it together, send it to the school and it will be sorted out so that one can study properly and pass the examination,” Ayodele Olawande said.

The minister said the student loan is for students in public tertiary and technical institutions.

Ayodele Olawande added everything must not be just education because the country had got to a stage were skills was also needed.

“China, India, United States and others are successful because of skills citizens have.

“The government is not saying everything must be university, polytechnic, tertiary institution. They must also go to technical schools so the persons can have one or two skills.

“Most of the foreigners they bring to Nigeria to work, who we call graduates, are not graduates. They are technicians,” Ayodele Olawande said.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande said that in every ministry and corporation, young people are found.

Ayodele Olawande said this was the reason most decisions government made boiled down on youths.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the Student Loan Scheme, which is being implemented, is part of the Higher Education Access Act, assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a year ago.

In February, the Act was returned to National Assembly for overhaul and was assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Source: https://thenationonlineng.net/minister-student-loan-will-curb-dropouts/

The Student Loan

The student loan will combat the financial challenges which hinders many talented students from accessing higher education, according to Yusuf Aliu.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s enactment of the Students Loans Act 2024 is a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s educational landscape. This progressive legislation stands as a beacon of hope for countless indigent students, providing them the financial assistance, help and support required to pursue their academic dreams and aspirations and contribute to the nation’s progress and development.

The Student Loan Act 2024 is a visionary initiative designed to handle the financial challenges, barriers and stress that prevent many gifted, talented and ambitious students from accessing higher education. By offering accessible student loans, the Act ensures that no student is left behind due to economic hardship. This commitment and dedication to educational equality is crucial for building a more inclusive and knowledgeable society.

One of the Act’s most significant impacts is its potential to curb the economic burden on families striving to educate their children. In Nigeria’s challenging economic climate, many families encounter severe financial limitations, making higher education seem unattainable and farfetched. The Student Loan Act offers these families with much-needed financial relief, allowing students to focus on their studies without the constant worry of monetary struggles.

Moreover, the Act is a timely response to Nigeria’s broader economic challenges. By investing in education, the government is laying the foundation for a more skilled and knowledgeable workforce. This investment is essential for driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and increasing productivity. As more students gain access to higher education, the country can expect to see a surge in economic development, growth and prosperity.

Education is one of the most powerful tools for social mobility, and the Student Loan Act 2024 ensures that even students from the most underprivileged backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed. This legislation is not just about providing financial help; it is about instilling hope and creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to education through Students Loans is a testament to his visionary leadership. By prioritizing the education of indigent students, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is investing in Nigeria’s future. This Act will undoubtedly have a lasting positive impact, enabling students to complete their educational journeys, build successful careers, and contribute to the nation’s progress.

In conclusion, the Student Loan Act 2024 is a groundbreaking step towards a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. It underscores the importance of education in addressing economic challenges and highlights the government’s dedication to empowering its citizens. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s student loan initiative will not only change the lives of countless students but also drive the nation towards a brighter and more inclusive future. This legislation is a clear demonstration of the power of education to change lives and propel a nation forward.

Source: https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/06/03/the-student-loan-initiative/

Npower News: Conditional Cash Transfer 3 Days Training Ongoing Across The Federation

According to Npower News, the ongoing National Social Safety-Nets Project Scale-Up (NASSP-SU) Orientation step-down training for SCTU staff and Desk.Officers in Taraba is taking place at Lasandi Hotel in Jalingo, Taraba State.

The National Social Safety-Nets Project Scale-Up (NASSP-SU) State Orientation Training is also ongoing in Ogun State and this training runs till June 3rd, from 8:00 am daily.

According to Npower News, Mr. Waghbo Terkura Emmanuel, the Programme Manager for the Benue State Conditional Cash Transfer, is currently overseeing the implementation of the National Social Safety-nets Project Scale-Up (NASSP SU) in Benue state. As part of this initiative, over 224,090 households across twenty three local government areas are set to benefit from the ongoing enrollment process of the conditional cash transfer.

Federal Government Grant To Study Masters And PhD In Italy

The Federal Government of Italy is offering 9 months of scholarship to 15 interested Nigerian students for studies in Italy and research centers and one out of the 15 scholarship slot in memory of late ambassador Luca Athanasius in the field of International Relations for the academic session 2024/2025.

This Federal Government Grant is for Post Graduate courses, each student will be placed on a monthly stipend of 1000 Euros, this federal government grant will be disbursed every three months.

Eligibility for this federal government grant from Italy 

A) Masters Program: 

1) Applicants must possess a good Bachelors’ degree, the second year federal government grant will depend on the applicants' performance in the first year of the federal government grant.

2) Applicants must not be more than 28 years by deadline of this application.

B) PhD/Doctorate Program:

1) Applicants must have a good Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree.

2) Applicants need to meet the entry requirements and academic qualifications established by the Italian University.

3) Applicants must not be more than 30 years by deadline of this application.

4) All applicants are required to provide admission letter from any relevant University in Italy.

How to apply for this federal government grant from Italy 

1) Interested applicants are to visit https://studyinitaly.esteri.it to submit their applications and for further inquiries.

The Deadline for submission of the application for this federal government grant/scholarship from Italy is Friday 14th June, 2024.

Npower News Today Sunday June 2nd 2024

According to Npower News today Sunday June 2nd 2024, with respect to Npower payment, the National Coordinator of Npower have taken to the National Association of Npower beneficiaries Facebook handle to inform beneficiaries of Npower that Npower payment will take place on or before June 15th otherwise there will be massive demonstrations in Abuja. This statement was made on the National Association of Npower beneficiaries Facebook handle by the Npower National Coordinator see statement below.

"After my Exams, I'll be ready to come back to the street and keep fighting for you. Anything beyond June 15th without Payments we are definitely going to stage another massive protest in Abuja.

At this point, all I need is your prayer as I dip into my Medical board examinations deeply!!!" the Npower National Coordinator said.

https://www.facebook.com/100093105862796/posts/pfbid0UAHZjr6QpVPRXADhFortk78nugVbT2cgS8ikg77pjG68gFrTvE9Hq1vCa8TP2GZAl/?app=fbl

Npower News: Coalition Pleads With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu To Appoint Halimat Adenike Tejuosho Minister For Humanitarian Affairs And Poverty Alleviation

A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), comprising of over one hundred CSOs met in Arewa House Kaduna to congratulate and appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a meritorious one year in office , and pleaded with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) which gave President Bola Ahmed Tinubu pass mark on his progressive policies, support to People Living with Disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens at any rate, also thanked the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Remi Tinubu for her firm support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in addition to the agricultural support she has recently extended to women and youths as well as People Living with Disabilities (PWDs) across the country.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) equally praised and described the leadership of National Assembly as a symbol of democracy.

At a press conference organised by the Coalition in Arewa House Kaduna on Saturday, the Chairman for the Coalition, Comrade Aliyu Muhammad Sani said that their main aim of organizing the press conference was to join several other groups and individuals to drum support for Halimat Adenike Tejuosho who has over the years distinguished herself as a true humanitarian to be appointed as the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) said “today we join PWDs across the 36 states and FCT as well as APC PWDs leaders in the 36 states and all other stakeholders like Senators, APC stalwarts, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), credible and objective observers and youth parliaments across the country who have been agitating and consulting widely for the appointment of this seasoned humanitarian as a Minister.”

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) described Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as a selfless patriot who has been using her personal resources to bring succour to senior citizens, People Living with Disabilities (PWDs) and the less privileged through her well thought out Queen Adenike Tejuosho Foundation (QATFoundation), adding that giving her a position of responsibility in line with her passion and interest will energize her to do more for the downtrodden of our society.

“As a mark of true philanthropy, the quintessential lady recently celebrated Children’s Day with the vulnerable and indigent children where over 500 school books, bags, shoes, water bottles, foodstuffs and writing materials were shared. Her Ramadan largesse to over 1000 PWDs as well as Sallah packages to hundreds of households who could not afford to celebrate the festivities cannot be forgotten.”

“Judging by all the individual sacrifices and the sheer passion to touch lives, the Coalition appealed to Mr. President to urgently consider filling the vacuum created with the suspension of Dr. Betta Edu by appointing Dame Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to enable Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda especially in the area of poverty alleviation.”

” From her antecedents and if given the opportunity, Hajiya Halimat Adenike Tejuosho, will continue to extend her generosity and passion to bring a turn around in the fortunes of the less privileged and downtrodden in Nigeria”, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) said.

On the argument that Halimat Adenike Tejuosho is not from the South South region where the former Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Betta Edu hailed from, the Coalition disclosed that Adenike Tejuosho’s maternal home is actually from Delta State which makes her a full blooded South South person even though her father’s from Lagos State.

“We do not want to trivialize the issue of origin and region as competence and merit should triumph over issues of origin and other differences that only serve to divide rather than unite us. It is therefore our earnest appeal to Mr. President to consider appointing this noble, hardworking and dedicated humanitarian and party stalwart as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation”, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) said.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) recalled the support and efforts made by People Living with Disability (PWD) community in Nigeria who have worked for the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and fervently pleaded with him to grant their only wish by appointing one of them who has distinguished herself as a Minister considering the length of time the Ministry has been left vacant and the danger it portends for the smooth running of government affairs.

“Mr. President, we are united with one voice without any external influence in making this appeal and prayer. It’ll be a privilege to appoint this selfless woman as a Minister because we are very sure she will deliver. This is our collective resolve borne out of the conviction that with the support she has been giving people in the community for over 10 years, she’s the right person for the job. Politics, region and other considerations should be put aside to allow competence and merit to prevail”, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) said.

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/06/coalition-urges-tinubu-to-appoint-halimat-tejuosho-as-humanitarian-affairs-minister/