The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced plans to expand its student loan scheme to include vocational and technical skills training across the country, with the rollout expected to begin in the next six to eight weeks.
Speaking during a strategic engagement and sensitisation campaign in Enugu State, the Managing Director of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, revealed that the initiative will offer loans to individuals seeking to acquire skills at various training centres, including those focused on fashion design and other vocations.
Sawyerr disclosed that Enugu has been identified as one of the pioneer states to benefit from the vocational training support scheme. “We are working on it now, and we’re going to have some discussions with the executive governor and his team, because we want to start it here,” he stated.
He added that President Bola Tinubu has directed NELFUND to prioritise states and institutions that demonstrate readiness and willingness to collaborate, to ensure a smooth and effective launch.
Meanwhile, during a tour of the Enugu Garments and Fashion Hub on Friday, NELFUND’s Executive Director of Operations, Mr. Iyal Mustapha, praised the state’s preparedness. He said Enugu stood out among more than ten states with existing vocational training facilities.
“Presently, we have seen such centres in over 10 states, but Enugu is one of the best,” Mustapha said. “Enugu is going to be one of the first states we are looking at to begin implementation. What I have seen here gives us a lot of positivity.”
He noted that the programme will mirror NELFUND’s student loan model, with a dedicated portal for interested candidates to apply for vocational training support. The loan package will cover tuition fees, provide living allowances, and equip beneficiaries with starter kits upon completion of their training.
“We are going to cover the training costs, provide upkeep support, and offer tools for them to start their careers. Specific centres will be designated in each state, so applicants know where to go,” Mustapha explained.
On the issue of upkeep allowances, he said the details are still being finalised as part of NELFUND’s operational guidelines. He noted that training fees will depend on what individual centres propose, and that transport and institutional charges will be factored into the total loan amount.
“The government is recognising the importance of vocational skills and is committed to supporting communities through this initiative. It’s a work in progress, but one with great promise,” he added.
