Students of the University of Calabar (UniCal) have appealed to the institution’s management to extend the deadline for course registration and school fee payments due to delays in disbursements from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). The appeal, spearheaded by a 200-level student, Mr. Johnson David, highlights the financial challenges faced by students awaiting loan disbursements and other scholarship opportunities.

In a letter obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), David explained that many students had applied for NELFUND loans, with some applications verified but yet to be disbursed. “We are yet to receive disbursement, which has hindered our ability to pay our school fees,” he stated. He also mentioned that students were awaiting responses from other scholarship initiatives, such as the Clement Joshua School Fees Empowerment.

Acknowledging the students’ plight, UniCal’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, confirmed that over ₦182 million had been disbursed to 1,926 students of the institution as of December 3, 2024. In a statement, the management requested the details of the beneficiaries and the credited amounts to ensure proper documentation and accurate record-keeping.

David expressed gratitude to the university management and the Students Union Government for their understanding and efforts in addressing the students’ concerns. He urged the institution to consider their appeal, emphasizing that an extended deadline would alleviate financial pressures and allow students to focus on their academic pursuits without undue stress.