NANS seeks NELFUND access for Nigerians studying abroad

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), specifically its Turkish Zone, has appealed to the Nigerian Senate to broaden the scope of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). The association seeks to include eligible Nigerian students enrolled in accredited institutions abroad, arguing that access to educational financing should not be limited by geographical location.

NANS President of the Turkish Zone, Daniel Okpala, stated that the increasing number of Nigerians pursuing higher education overseas necessitates a corresponding review of government policies on education financing. The association highlighted the significant financial pressures faced by these students, including rising tuition fees, accommodation costs, and the impact of exchange rate fluctuations.

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The increasing number of Nigerians pursuing higher education abroad requires corresponding attention from government in its education financing policies.

NANS argues that Nigerian students studying abroad should not be excluded from government-backed educational support. They are calling for a review of the existing NELFUND framework to accommodate qualified students in foreign institutions. The association views this proposed expansion as a crucial step toward enhancing educational opportunities and alleviating the financial burdens on Nigerian students worldwide.

Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, expressed willingness to examine NANS's proposal and explore the legislative process for expanding NELFUND. He acknowledged the importance of diaspora representation in national policy discussions. NANS also called for stronger engagement between Nigerian diplomatic missions and student communities abroad.

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Nigerian students should not lose government-backed educational support simply because they are pursuing their studies outside the country.