NANS Threatens to Occupy NELFUND HQ over Two-month Delay in Student Upkeep Allowances

The National Association of Nigerian Students has threatened nationwide mass action, including occupying the headquarters of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, over delayed disbursement of students’ upkeep allowances.

NANS said beneficiaries across the country have not received upkeep payments for the past two months, leaving many stranded amid harsh economic conditions.

—“Delay is unacceptable”—

In a statement Saturday, NANS President Akinteye Afeez called the delay “unacceptable and contrary to the objectives of the NELFUND initiative” set up to provide financial relief to students.

“We have it on good authority that the disbursement of students’ upkeep allowances has been on hold for the past two months without any clear explanation from the relevant authorities,” Afeez said. “This situation has created widespread concern among Nigerian students nationwide.”

—Demand for urgent intervention—

Afeez urged NELFUND Managing Director Akintunde Sawyerr, Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa, and Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele to intervene immediately and pay all outstanding allowances.

He warned that failure to resolve the issue “within the shortest possible time” would force students into “peaceful but decisive action”.

“Failure to resolve all issues relating to the delayed upkeep payments and ensure that students receive their entitlements will leave Nigerian students with no option but to embark on peaceful mass action, including the occupation of the NELFUND Head Office,” he stated.

Afeez stressed the planned action is “not a threat but a legitimate expression of frustration” by thousands of students who depend on the funds for transport, feeding and other essentials.

NANS reaffirmed its commitment to defending students’ interests and ensuring their voices are heard on education and welfare issues.