The University of Jos has issued a strong rebuttal following allegations reported by The Guardian suggesting irregularities in the disbursement of funds from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). The institution firmly stated that the claims are both “false and misleading,” insisting that all disbursements were conducted transparently and in full compliance with NELFUND guidelines.
According to a detailed statement from the NELFUND Desk Office at UNIJOS, the University has established mechanisms to handle all NELFUND-related processes with diligence and transparency. Mr. Daniel Yakmut, a strategic team member of the NELFUND Desk and Director of ICT at the University, emphasized that the school’s charges submitted to NELFUND were accurate and aligned with approved fees.
He criticized the Guardian’s report dated April 29, 2025, for not seeking the University’s perspective before publication. “Had the author consulted us, the University would have provided full context on the institutional fee schedule, beneficiary data, and the fund disbursement structure,” Yakmut stated.
Addressing the claim that the University overcharged students and diverted the excess, Yakmut presented data showing that of the 10,617 students who applied for the loan during the 2023/2024 academic session, 6,988 met the eligibility criteria and received funds directly credited toward their tuition.
He clarified that tuition fees varied by faculty and programme, with 100-level Science students charged ₦165,000 (including ₦25,000 for lab use) and Non-Science students ₦140,000. For higher levels, fees ranged from ₦105,000 to ₦135,000, depending on lab, studio, or workshop components.
A significant point of confusion, Yakmut explained, arose due to the timing of NELFUND disbursements. By the time funds were credited, most students had already advanced to the next academic level and paid their prior session’s fees. Consequently, the funds were applied to the new session, with any remaining balance stored in student accounts.
“These balances are not lost,” he assured. “They are credited to the students’ ledger cards and can be used to offset fees in the following session. Refund policies for final-year students have also been implemented upon request, after verifying payment records.”
The University reiterated its commitment to working with beneficiaries to resolve any concerns, encouraging students to reach out to the NELFUND Desk Officer at the Bursary Department, ICT Directorate, or the Directorate of Students Affairs for guidance.
The statement was signed by Mr. Abdullahi Abdullahi, Senior Deputy Registrar (Information and Publications), who reaffirmed UNIJOS’ dedication to transparency and responsible management of public funds.
For more verified campus news and student updates, stay tuned.