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Nigeria’s interest-free student loan initiative has rapidly emerged as a vital educational funding resource nationwide. Since its inception, this programme has empowered thousands of undergraduates by providing essential tuition coverage and daily living stipends, offering crucial relief to families grappling with escalating expenses.
By October 2025, the NELFUND platform had successfully processed 451,535 applications, underscoring the increasing reliance of students on this financial aid to sustain their academic pursuits. With tuition fees and general living costs surging across the country, the demand for government-supported educational financing has reached unprecedented levels.
Launched less than two years ago on May 24, 2024, NELFUND has already allocated over N116 billion towards tuition and maintenance allowances, reflecting its significant impact on Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
Top Nigerian Universities Benefiting from NELFUND Student Loans
1. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Borno State – 85,050 Applications
Established in 1975, UNIMAID stands as one of northern Nigeria’s largest academic institutions, accommodating over 80,000 students across 37 faculties and research centres. The university recorded 33,673 undergraduate loan applications, highlighting the critical role NELFUND plays in supporting its student body. UNIMAID offers diverse programmes including agriculture, engineering, medicine, law, and humanities.
2. Bayero University Kano (BUK) – 54,419 Applications
Founded in 1977, BUK remains a prominent educational hub in northern Nigeria, with nearly 39,000 students enrolled in 163 undergraduate courses. The university received 54,419 loan applications, with 26,595 approved for upkeep funding, ranking among the highest in the country. Notably, BUK secured 3rd place in the 2026 Times Higher Education rankings for Nigerian universities.
3. Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), Katsina – 50,737 Applications
Since its establishment in 2011, FUDMA has expanded to include nine faculties and over 73 departments, serving close to 30,000 students. By October 2025, it had logged 50,737 loan applications, with 25,074 approved for maintenance support. The university’s academic offerings span agriculture, sciences, social sciences, education, and medical fields.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – 46,663 Applications
As one of Nigeria’s oldest and most esteemed universities, ABU recorded 46,663 loan applications, with 23,004 receiving approval. Hosting over 35,000 students across 18 faculties and 110 departments, ABU ranks 6th nationally and falls within the 1201-1500 bracket globally according to THE rankings.
5. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State – 44,735 Applications
UNILORIN is among Nigeria’s most populous universities, with a student population exceeding 50,000. It received 44,735 loan applications, approving over 21,506 for upkeep. The institution comprises 16 faculties, 100 departments, and 29 research centres, fostering a robust academic environment.
6. University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State – 35,913 Applications
Founded in 1975, UNIJOS operates 12 faculties and serves approximately 40,000 students. By October 2025, it had received 35,913 loan applications, including 17,606 for maintenance support. The university benefits from the clinical training facilities of its teaching hospital, Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), enhancing medical education quality.
7. Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS), Sokoto – 35,714 Applications
UDUS, established in 1975, recorded 35,714 loan applications, with 17,603 approved for upkeep. The university hosts 17 faculties and multiple research centres, attracting students predominantly from underserved communities in Nigeria’s North-West region.
8. Federal University of Kashere (FUKashere), Gombe State – 34,208 Applications
Founded in 2010, FUKashere is among the fastest expanding universities in the North-East, with 34,208 loan applications submitted, including 16,878 for upkeep. The institution offers six faculties and a variety of postgraduate programmes, contributing to regional educational development.
9. Taraba State University (TSU), Jalingo – 32,030 Applications
Since its inception in 2008, TSU has grown rapidly, now offering courses in agriculture, science, management, ICT, and social sciences. The university received 32,030 loan applications, with 15,712 students requesting upkeep support, reflecting its increasing student population and financial needs.
10. University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State – 31,826 Applications
Established in 1991, UNIUYO operates across five campuses and offers over 90 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The university recorded 31,826 loan applications, including 15,605 for upkeep, demonstrating strong participation in the NELFUND scheme.
Conclusion: The Growing Importance of NELFUND in Nigerian Higher Education
The surge in applications across these top universities highlights the critical role NELFUND plays in bridging financial gaps for Nigerian students. As tuition fees and living expenses continue to rise, government-backed interest-free loans remain indispensable in ensuring access to quality education. With over N116 billion disbursed in under two years, NELFUND’s impact is reshaping the educational landscape, fostering greater inclusivity and academic success nationwide.
