Amid ongoing controversies over the Federal Government’s alleged plan to replace the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) by 2030 through the Tax Reform Bills before the National Assembly, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has demanded clear explanations on the issue.
The call was made during NANS’ 86th National Senate Sitting and Pre-Convention event at Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, where over 5,000 student leaders from across Nigeria gathered.
Speaking with Nigerian Tribune, NANS Senate President Babatunde Afeez Akinteye emphasized the importance of transparency regarding TETFUND’s future under the proposed reforms. He described the agency as indispensable to Nigeria’s educational system, citing its contributions to infrastructure, research, and capacity building.
“TETFUND’s presence on campuses is undeniable. Without it, the state of our institutions would be unimaginable. While we welcome NELFUND’s introduction as a means to expand educational access, we insist that TETFUND must not be tampered with but rather adequately funded and managed by credible individuals,” Akinteye said.
On the controversial increase in tuition fees by public institutions, Akinteye reiterated NANS’ opposition. “We reject any further fee hikes. NELFUND loans cannot justify such increments. This stance has been communicated to vice-chancellors, rectors, and provosts, and we are monitoring the situation closely,” he stated.
He also urged the government to ensure proper oversight of NELFUND loan disbursement to prevent misuse and maximize its impact on students in need.
National President of NANS, Lucky Emonefe, also addressed the gathering, commending Nigerian students for their resilience and commitment. He reassured them of the association’s dedication to safeguarding their interests, advocating for TETFUND’s continuation, and raising awareness about accessing NELFUND loans transparently.
“Students do not need connections to secure a loan from NELFUND. Its operations are transparent, and we have representatives on the board to ensure fairness,” Emonefe added.
Emonefe also presented his administration’s achievements and announced that NANS’ next national convention, set to elect new leaders, would be held in Abuja next March.
The event highlighted NANS’ role in fostering unity among students, with Samuel Eze, Chairman of the Council of Students’ Union Presidents, Southeast Zone, praising the Federal Government for resolving the vice-chancellorship crisis at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, which had caused significant unrest among students.
As the controversy continues, NANS has pledged to remain vigilant and ensure that both TETFUND and NELFUND serve the best interests of Nigerian students.
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