Beneficiaries of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) in Anambra State have publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, donating a total of ₦10.7 million towards the purchase of his 2027 expression of interest form.
The endorsement and donation were unveiled during a gathering held at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam Campus, where students and youth stakeholders praised the Federal Government’s student loan initiative for easing financial pressure on thousands of undergraduates across the country.
Addressing participants at the event, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council in Anambra State, Ifeanyichukwu Chukwuemeka, described the gesture as a symbolic appreciation for what he called “transformative educational reforms” introduced under the Tinubu administration.
According to him, the NELFUND scheme has provided many students with renewed hope and greater access to tertiary education at a time when economic realities continue to affect families across Nigeria.
“We, the beneficiaries of the NELFUND scheme, are collectively endorsing President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office in recognition of the transformative impact of the programme on access to higher education and the reduction of financial burdens on students,” Chukwuemeka said.
He added that the ₦10,735,500 donation was contributed voluntarily by beneficiaries and supporters as a show of gratitude to the President for prioritising education and youth development.
“This gesture is a symbolic expression of gratitude for the President’s bold educational reforms, youth-oriented policies, and commitment to expanding access to tertiary education opportunities across the nation,” he stated.
The student leader also commended Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, for his support towards students and educational advancement in the state, noting that the governor’s policies have continued to encourage academic excellence and youth participation in development initiatives.
“We appreciate Governor Soludo for his steadfast support for students in Anambra State and for improving educational standards through progressive leadership,” he added.
The event further highlighted growing conversations around youth participation in governance and the influence of educational interventions on political engagement among students.
Some students present at the gathering described the student loan initiative as one of the most impactful education-focused policies introduced in recent years, especially for undergraduates from low-income backgrounds struggling with tuition and living expenses.
A student beneficiary who spoke during the event said the programme had prevented many students from dropping out of school due to financial difficulties.
“For many of us, this loan scheme became the difference between staying in school and abandoning our education. It has restored confidence in the possibility of completing our academic pursuits,” the student said.
The students also acknowledged the contributions of businessman and social entrepreneur Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, for supporting youth mobilisation and empowerment initiatives across the South-East region.
Special recognition was equally given to the State Women Leader of the City Boys Movement, Adaora Soludo, and the State Coordinator, Nonso Ozoemena, for their involvement in youth leadership and community engagement programmes.
The gathering attracted several dignitaries, including former Special Assistant to Governor Soludo on Student Matters, Okoye Mathew, alongside Student Union Government presidents and youth representatives from tertiary institutions across the state.
