The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone C has raised serious concerns regarding the withholding of refunds from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) by several universities in the North-Central region. The association has called for immediate action to ensure that students who have already settled their tuition fees through personal or family funds are not further burdened by the delay in receiving their refunds.

In a press briefing held in Ilorin, Comrade Abiola Azeez Babatunde, the Zonal Coordinator of NANS Zone C, expressed dissatisfaction with the practices of some institutions that impose arbitrary late-payment penalties and hidden charges on students. He emphasized that these additional financial burdens come at a time when many families are already grappling with economic hardships.

Babatunde highlighted that numerous students who availed themselves of the NELFUND had already paid their tuition fees before the loans were disbursed. He described the continued withholding of these refunds as unacceptable, arguing that it undermines the Federal Government’s intention to alleviate financial pressures faced by students and their families. "NANS Zone C demands the immediate refund of all NELFUND payments due to affected students," he stated firmly.

Furthermore, the NANS leader cautioned against the misuse of students' refunds for administrative purposes, insisting that funds meant for students should not be diverted for other uses. He asserted that any attempt to use these funds for institutional convenience would not be tolerated.

In addition to the refund issues, NANS Zone C condemned the imposition of exploitative charges, particularly penalties for late fee payments. Babatunde argued that genuine financial difficulties should not result in further penalties that could exacerbate the economic struggles of students. He urged institutions to reconsider their fee structures and eliminate unnecessary charges that add to the financial strain on students.

The association also called for improved security measures on campuses and in surrounding communities, citing recent incidents of robbery, kidnapping, and harassment. Babatunde urged security agencies to collaborate with educational institutions to enhance surveillance and safety for students.

Moreover, NANS Zone C issued a two-week ultimatum to universities in the region to conduct elections for their Students’ Union Government. The association stressed the importance of having elected representatives who can effectively advocate for student interests and engage with institutional authorities on welfare issues. Failure to hold these elections within the stipulated time could lead to legitimate actions from the association.

Additionally, Babatunde called on the Niger State Government to intervene in the ongoing strike at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, which has left many students in limbo for two weeks. He warned that if the situation is not resolved promptly, NANS may mobilize students across the North-Central region for peaceful protests.

In a positive note, NANS Zone C commended the Kwara State Government for its initiatives in education and youth empowerment, urging it to expand bursary schemes and improve student welfare. The association also called for a partnership with the North Central Development Commission to ensure students benefit from various programs aimed at enhancing education and entrepreneurship in the region.

Babatunde concluded by reaffirming NANS Zone C's commitment to constructively engage with government and institutional authorities while opposing any policies that negatively impact students' welfare and academic pursuits.