Nigeria’s student body has delivered a strong vote of confidence in the Federal Government’s student loan initiative, even as it called for improvements and greater accountability across institutions.
At an award ceremony in Abuja marking its 45th anniversary, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) rated the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) at 80 per cent—an endorsement that reflects both its impact and its imperfections. The event also featured the presentation of the 2026 NANS Excellence in Leadership, Service and Community Impact Award to House of Representatives member, Davidson Akinlayo Kolawole, in recognition of his contributions to student welfare.
NANS President, Olusola Oladoja, described the rating as the outcome of independent findings and nationwide student feedback. According to him, the initiative has already reached millions, easing long-standing financial pressures tied to tuition, accommodation, and basic upkeep.
“This is the first time Nigerian students are experiencing this level of structured support. While there are still lapses, the impact cannot be ignored”, Oladoja noted.
However, the student leader did not shy away from raising red flags. He cited delays in disbursement and alleged cases of mismanagement in some institutions, warning that any official found culpable could face petitions to anti-corruption agencies.
The spotlight on the event extended beyond policy assessment. Akinlayo’s recognition, Oladoja explained, was grounded in independent research highlighting his consistent investment in youth-focused initiatives. Among these are bursary schemes for students in his constituency and a N100,000 academic incentive for undergraduates who maintain a CGPA of 3.5 and above—an effort aimed at rewarding excellence and encouraging diligence.
Receiving the award, Akinlayo described the honour as both humbling and motivating, especially at a time when Nigeria faces critical development challenges. He reiterated his commitment to policies and interventions that directly uplift students and expand access to education.
Yet, beyond financial support and policy frameworks, the lawmaker turned attention to a growing concern within academic circles—the misuse of technology.
In a candid message to students, Akinlayo warned against overreliance on artificial intelligence and digital tools, stressing that while they are designed to enhance learning, they must not replace critical thinking.
“Technology should improve your performance, not weaken your ability to think independently,” he said.
“When students depend on AI for assignments and tests, it defeats the purpose of education”, he noted.
He linked the issue to a broader decline in academic standards, noting that some students now prioritize shortcuts over genuine intellectual engagement. Even more troubling, he added, is the emerging trend of using digital tools for fraudulent activities—a problem he attributed partly to weak moral foundations.
Akinlayo called for a return to strong values, urging parents, educators, and institutions to reinforce discipline, accountability, and proper upbringing.
“We must rebuild character alongside intellect. That is how we produce not just better students, but a better society”, he stated.
Despite acknowledging operational challenges, NANS maintained that NELFUND stands out as one of the most transformative education policies in recent years. With sustained reforms and stricter oversight, the association believes the initiative could redefine access to higher education in Nigeria.
As the conversation around student welfare evolves, one message from Abuja is clear: funding matters, but character, accountability, and responsible use of technology will ultimately shape the future of Nigeria’s education system.