Beneficiaries of the Federal Government's student loan scheme have expressed frustration over the delayed payment of their August stipends. In interviews, several students voiced their disappointment, highlighting the financial strain caused by the delay.
It was reported that students have the option to apply for upkeep loans in addition to institutional loans, which are disbursed directly to educational institutions.
As of July, a total of 20,371 students from six universities received N20,000 each as their monthly stipend. The institutions involved include Bayero University, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, University of Ilorin, University of Benin, University of Ibadan, and University of Maiduguri.
A student from Bayero University, who wished to remain anonymous stated, "We haven’t received the August stipend. I am very confused. Please help us speak to them. The economy is getting too difficult. In fact, we are even trying to plead with them to please help us increase the stipend as the N20,000 cannot even get us anywhere."
Another student from the University of Ibadan echoed similar sentiments, saying, "To be very honest, I was expecting it at the end of the month, but till now we have not received any feedback regarding the issue."
A University of Benin student also expressed urgency, stating, "Honestly, it is getting too late. NELFUND needs to do something. Our school fees have been paid, but at this point, the upkeep is much more important. Please help us reach out to them."
In response to the situation, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the Director of Corporate Communications at NELFUND, assured that the students would likely receive their stipends this week, stating, "It’s been approved. They should get it this week."
Additionally, the National Association of Nigerian Students has urged the Federal Government to increase the monthly stipend from N20,000 to N40,000.
