The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed strong concerns over Nigeria’s new student loan scheme, NELFUND. The union believes the policy could trap students in long-term debt instead of solving the real issues facing higher education.
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Education Is a Public Responsibility
ASUU insists that education should be treated as a public good, not a business. The union urges the government to fund universities directly through grants rather than pushing students to borrow for school fees.
Low Student Participation
Reports show that fewer than 400,000 students have applied for NELFUND loans out of over two million undergraduates. ASUU says this shows that many students fear debt and are unsure of how they will repay after graduation.
Rejection of NELFUND Board Role
ASUU declined an offer to join the NELFUND governing board, saying it wants to remain independent from a policy it does not support.
What It Means for Students
For now, students are caught between two sides — a government promoting loans and a union demanding grants. While NELFUND loans may help cover tuition in the short term, the uncertainty about repayment and rising school fees remain a serious concern. If ASUU’s push for grants succeeds, students could enjoy fairer funding and reduced financial stress in the future.