By Clifford Ejenavi
The ancient town of Ijebu Igbo in Ogun State was agog at the weekend as residents, students, education stakeholders and community leaders poured encomiums on the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) following what they described as an impressive progress report on the implementation of the national student loan scheme.
The excitement followed recent disclosures by the management of NELFUND on the number of beneficiaries, the volume of loans disbursed and the Fund’s expanding engagement across tertiary institutions in the country. Community members in Ijebu Igbo said the development signaled a new dawn for students from low-income households who had long struggled with financing their education.
Speaking with Nigerian Impact, a community youth leader, Mr. Kazeem Adebayo, said the town had closely monitored NELFUND’s activities since the student loan scheme commenced.
“What we are seeing now gives us hope. Many students from Ijebu Igbo who thought schooling would end for them are now talking about applying for the next phase of loans. It is a big relief for families,” he said.
Also reacting, Mrs. Abimbola Salami, commended the transparent approach NELFUND has adopted in updating Nigerians. “The progress report shows seriousness and commitment. Parents here are discussing it daily, and more students are preparing because they believe the process is real and beneficial,” she noted.
Students in the town said the loan scheme had renewed their aspiration to complete their academic goals without fear of financial setbacks. A 200-level Polytechnic student, Adeola Ogunseye, said the report “makes us feel included and supported by government.”
Traditional rulers in the town also expressed optimism, urging NELFUND to sustain momentum and ensure equitable access across communities. A palace aide to the Orimolusi of Ijebu Igbo said the monarch was pleased that the initiative was gaining acceptance in rural and semi-urban areas.
The NELFUND progress report, according to observers, has strengthened public trust and expanded awareness about the loan scheme’s requirements, application process and repayment structure.
Residents said they look forward to more direct engagements between NELFUND and Ogun State communities, adding that the education loan initiative could significantly reduce school dropouts and boost human capital development.
With growing enthusiasm in Ijebu Igbo, stakeholders say the community is ready to fully key into future phases of the loan disbursement as NELFUND continues to widen its national footprint.
