The University of Abuja Governing Council has dismissed claims that funds from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) intended for students were misappropriated by the institution’s management.
In a statement on Friday, the Acting Registrar and Secretary to Council, Sambo Mohammed, said the report was misleading and lacked factual basis. The Council, chaired by Senator Olanrewaju Tejuoso, stressed that no NELFUND funds have been diverted, withheld, or misused by the University or any of its officials.
“The University operates strictly within established financial regulations and maintains accountability in managing all funds,” the statement said.
The Council also referenced an official clarification from NELFUND’s Directorate of Strategic Communications, which confirmed that there is no verified evidence supporting the allegations. The Council said the media report “does not reflect the true state of affairs.”
It emphasised that the University has consistently complied with all guidelines for disbursing and utilising intervention funds, including those from NELFUND, and maintains robust internal controls to ensure transparency and due process.
The Council urged the public and stakeholders to rely only on verified information from credible and official sources.
“Council states clearly that no NELFUND funds have been diverted, misappropriated, or unlawfully withheld by the University or any of its officials. The Council further notes the official clarification issued by NELFUND, confirming that there is no verified evidence to support the allegation,” the statement read.
It also reiterated confidence in the University’s management, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, affirming the institution’s ongoing commitment to transparency, due process, and integrity.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the University’s dedication to its mandate as a centre of academic excellence and national unity, assuring students and stakeholders that all intervention funds are managed in accordance with the law and relevant guidelines.
