By Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
THE Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal deadline, citing overwhelming demand generated by its ongoing nationwide awareness campaign.
The decision follows a previous notice issued last week which indicated that the portal would close on February 27, 2026.
In response to feedback from students and stakeholders, NELFUND has granted additional days for eligible students to submit their applications, pending further announcements regarding the new closure date.
The extension is specifically designed to accommodate students requiring more time to complete their applications, individuals who became aware of the scheme during recent sensitisation drives, institutions commencing their 2025/2026 academic session, and schools that are yet to submit verified student lists.
NELFUND’s Managing Director, Mr Akintunde Sawyerr, reaffirmed the fund’s dedication to inclusivity and equal access, ensuring that all eligible students have the opportunity to apply.
“Our sensitisation efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation. Therefore, in line with our mandate to expand access to tertiary education financing, we have approved an extension to ensure that all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply,” he stated.
NELFUND has reiterated that institutions which have not yet commenced the 2025/2026 academic session must submit an official request for extension, accompanied by their approved academic calendar, for consideration.
Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this window to complete their applications via the official NELFUND portal before it eventually closes.
The fund remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of sustainable student financing solutions designed to remove financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.
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