The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has approved an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal following a surge in nationwide demand driven by its ongoing sensitisation campaign.
In a statement issued on Monday, NELFUND’s Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, said the decision came after a reminder last week that the portal was scheduled to close on February 27, 2026.
According to the statement, the extension was granted in response to strong feedback from students and key stakeholders, as well as a sharp rise in applications and enquiries.
“In response to strong feedback from students and key stakeholders across the country, and in recognition of the surge in applications and inquiries, the Fund has approved additional days to ensure all eligible students are given adequate opportunity to complete their applications, pending further management decisions and communications,” the statement said.
NELFUND explained that the extension is intended to accommodate students who need more time to complete their applications, prospective applicants who only recently became aware of the scheme through nationwide sensitisation engagements, institutions just commencing their 2025/2026 academic session, and institutions yet to submit verified student lists.
Speaking on the development, NELFUND Managing Director and Chief Executive, Akintunde Sawyerr, reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to tertiary education financing.
“Our sensitisation efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation. 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 said.
NELFUND also reiterated that institutions that have not commenced the 2025/2026 academic session must submit an official request for an extension, along with their approved academic calendar, for consideration.
Students were urged to take advantage of the extended window to complete their applications through the official NELFUND portal before it closes.
The Fund restated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of sustainable student financing solutions aimed at removing financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.
