The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that the Federal Government has suspended the payment of upkeep allowances to beneficiaries of the student loan scheme.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NELFUND described the publications as false, misleading, and deliberately designed to create panic among students and members of the public.
The agency specifically debunked a purported official notice claiming that upkeep allowance payments had been temporarily suspended due to funding challenges. NELFUND stated that the document did not originate from the organisation or any authorised government channel.
According to the Fund, the viral publication, including an AI-generated newspaper front page falsely attributed to The Nigerian Tribune, is entirely fake and should be disregarded.
NELFUND clarified that neither the Federal Government nor the agency has issued any directive suspending the disbursement of upkeep allowances to beneficiaries of the student loan scheme.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to the transparent and efficient disbursement of student loans and upkeep support in line with its mandate of expanding access to higher education.
“No directive has been issued by the Federal Government or NELFUND regarding the suspension of upkeep allowances,” the statement noted.
NELFUND further urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely only on information released through its verified communication channels and credible media platforms.
The Fund also cautioned members of the public against sharing unverified content capable of spreading misinformation and causing unnecessary anxiety among beneficiaries nationwide.
Reassuring students of its continued support, NELFUND said it remains committed to providing sustainable financing opportunities that enhance access to tertiary education across the country.
The statement was signed by the Director of Strategic Communications, Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi.
