By Christiana Uka
The Management of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has directed students who applied for the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to verify their loan status and collect their school fee payment receipts.
The directive which was contained in a circular issued by the Office of the Bursar on July 3, 2026, and addressed to all beneficiaries of the scheme.
According to the circular signed by the Bursar, Mr. Wilson Aniyom, said students whose loan applications have been approved may not be aware of their status, while others do not know the steps required to verify their loans and obtain their receipts.
To address the situation, the university instructed affected students to visit the ICT Unit of the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) for verification and collection of their school fee payment receipts.
The circular stated that the exercise is necessary to validate loan disbursements and ensure that beneficiaries are properly captured among students whose fees have been paid through the scheme.
Speaking with this reporter, one of the scheme beneficiary, Miracle Dapa Jaja, said the program of a major relief, noting that the scheme has reduced the burden of paying school fees and other academic expenses, making it easier to concentrate on studies without constantly worrying about raising money for tuition and feeding.
“The loan has helped me focus more on my studies instead of worrying about how to raise money for tuition and feeding,” the student said.
The beneficiary also noted that the monthly feeding support of about ₦20,000 had been helpful in meeting basic needs while in school.
However, the student pointed out some challenges experienced during the application process, including delays in approval and difficulties accessing the portal.
“There were times when the portal was slow because many students were trying to use it, and it was difficult getting updates on the status of my application,” the student added.
Another student, who did not apply for the program said inadequate information influenced the decision.
“I didn’t apply because I wasn’t fully informed about the screening process and I wasn’t sure if I met all the requirements. I felt I needed more information before making a decision,” the student said.
Despite not applying, the student described the program as a positive initiative that could help reduce the financial burden on students and support those struggling to continue their education.
The students called for greater awareness of the scheme and a more efficient application process to enable more students to benefit from the program.
Students have been advised to take advantage of the verification exercise to avoid any issues relating to their loan records and school fee payments.
Short Link:
Leave feedback about this