The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), Professor Otoabasi Akpan, has urged students to fully embrace the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) introduced by the Federal Government. He made this call on Wednesday during the first Parents and Stakeholders’ Forum held at the university’s Main Campus in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
Speaking at the meeting, Prof. Akpan reflected on the steady development of the university and pointed out several achievements under his leadership, including the creation of four new faculties. He explained that the gathering was aimed at advancing the welfare of students, noting that NELFUND represents a major opportunity for young people who lack financial support to pursue higher education. According to him, NELFUND is designed to break financial barriers by offering loans and grants to eligible students and trainees.
He stated that these funds are made available to cover tuition, institutional charges, and upkeep for students in universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and recognized vocational institutions. The Vice-Chancellor highlighted that the repayment model of the loan is flexible, explaining that graduates are granted a grace period after NYSC before repayment begins. He added that those who remain unemployed will have their repayment automatically deferred until they secure a job.
Prof. Akpan expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, describing him as a strong supporter of the university’s progress. He maintained that AKSU is committed to academic excellence, while working closely with the state government in line with its ARISE Agenda. He also announced that the Parents and Stakeholders’ Forum will now hold every year.
In their remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Iniobong Umotong, University Librarian, Prof. Nse E. Akwang, and Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Usoro, praised the Acting Vice-Chancellor for organising the maiden edition of the forum. They stressed that NELFUND is strictly created for students and urged Deans, Heads of Departments, and all academic units to intensify awareness so that every eligible student benefits from it.
Parents, stakeholders, and members of the Students Union Executives at the event expressed strong support for Prof. Akpan’s leadership, describing the initiative as timely and commending the Federal Government for the opportunity. In her closing remarks, the Registrar and Secretary to Senate, Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, thanked attendees and encouraged parents to motivate their children and wards to make good use of NELFUND and complete their registration.
In attendance were the Head of Campus, Obio Akpa, and Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Prof. Jemimah Ekanem, alongside other Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors, teaching and non-teaching staff, village heads, elders, and clergy.
