The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has announced an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal.

This follows a surge in applications resulting from the organisation’s nationwide sensitisation campaign.

The extension was granted just days after NELFUND had reminded students that the portal would close on February 27, 2026.

Strong appeals from students, institutions, and other stakeholders prompted the decision to provide additional days for submissions.

In a statement signed by the Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, NELFUND said the decision was informed by the massive turnout recorded in recent days.

According to the statement, “The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has approved an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal following a significant increase in awareness and nationwide demand generated by its ongoing sensitisation campaign.”

The Fund explained that the extra days are meant for students who require more time, those newly informed about the scheme through outreach activities, schools that just commenced the 2025/2026 academic year, and institutions still in the process of submitting verified student lists.

Managing Director and Chief Executive, Akintunde Sawyerr, noted that the agency’s awareness drive across all six geopolitical zones had greatly boosted participation.

He said, “In line with our mandate to expand access to tertiary education financing, we have approved an extension to ensure that all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply.”

NELFUND urged institutions that are yet to begin their academic session to forward an official request for deadline adjustment along with their approved calendars.

Students were also encouraged to complete their applications promptly before the portal eventually closes.

Reiterating its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Fund said it remains focused on providing sustainable financial support to reduce barriers to higher education.