The Chairman of the House Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing, Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero, has reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to transparency and accountability in the administration of student loans under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
Hon. Ehindero, who represents Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency, made this known during the opening session of the Joint Committee investigating alleged unethical practices in the disbursement of student loans by NELFUND.
The hearing, convened at Conference Room 107, National Assembly Complex, follows a resolution of the House passed on May 28, 2025, in response to widespread concerns and credible reports on the integrity of the NELFUND disbursement process.
“This hearing is not a witch-hunt. It is a truth-seeking mission designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in the administration of a programme that directly affects the future of our youth and the development of our nation,” Hon. Ehindero told journalists.
The session, however, experienced a setback as several key stakeholders failed to attend, with some agencies yet to submit crucial documents requested by the committee. Of particular note was the absence of the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, whose input was considered vital to the inquiry.
“Many of the committee’s questions were meant for him. His absence significantly affected the session,” Hon. Ehindero noted. “The Managing Director must ensure his presence at the next hearing.”
The committee expressed disappointment at the low turnout and warned that further disregard for its summons may result in legislative actions to compel attendance.
Hon. Ehindero further disclosed that NELFUND had disbursed over ₦73.1 billion between January and June 2025 to more than 366,000 Nigerian students across federal and state institutions. Of this, ₦38.2 billion was disbursed for tuition while ₦34.8 billion went to upkeep allowances.
While commending the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda for launching the historic loan scheme, Hon. Ehindero emphasized the need for due diligence and oversight.
“We are here to ask important questions and to hold accountable any individuals or institutions found wanting. We owe this to the thousands of Nigerian students depending on this fund to pursue their education.”
He called on NELFUND officials, civil society organisations, government agencies, and the public to cooperate fully with the committee and ensure honest, timely submissions as the probe continues.
Signed:
Akeju Blessing James
Chief Press Secretary to
Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero
