Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Port Harcourt, has confirmed the receipt of ₦809,325,700 from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to cover tuition for 4,649 students in the 2025/2026 academic session.

The payment, identified as the second batch under the scheme (IAUEPHSL11), forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to widen access to higher education through structured student financing.

Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Okechukwu Onuchuku, described the intervention as a major relief for students facing financial challenges, noting that it has already begun to positively impact academic focus and overall morale.

He said the initiative reflects a strong commitment by NELFUND to advancing education and supporting the development of future Nigerian leaders.

“The support provided by NELFUND is a clear demonstration of commitment to advancing education and empowering the next generation of Nigerian leaders,” the statement read.

According to the university, the disbursement has eased the burden of tuition payments for thousands of students, allowing beneficiaries to concentrate more fully on their studies without financial pressure.

NELFUND, established to provide accessible education financing, has continued to expand its reach across tertiary institutions nationwide, positioning student loans as a central pillar in Nigeria’s evolving education funding framework.

The IAUE disbursement adds to a growing list of institutions benefiting from the scheme, as authorities intensify efforts to remove financial barriers and improve access to quality higher education.