UNICAL Students Protest Delayed NELFUND Refunds

Students of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) have raised concerns over delays in the refund of tuition fees under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing the situation as frustrating and financially burdensome.

The affected students, who spoke anonymously, said many beneficiaries of the scheme are yet to receive refunds despite assurances from university authorities that payments have commenced.

According to the students, the delay has caused confusion across campus, particularly for those who borrowed money from friends, relatives, or financial institutions to meet registration deadlines with the expectation of reimbursement.

Some students also noted discrepancies between their loan dashboards which indicate that funds have been disbursed and the university’s apparent failure to confirm receipt of such payments.

To track developments, affected students reportedly created a WhatsApp platform where refund updates are shared. However, many claim that no beneficiary has publicly confirmed receiving any payment, further deepening uncertainty.

The situation has led to calls for accountability, with students demanding a thorough investigation into the refund process and urging authorities to ensure transparency.

Responding to the concerns, the institution’s NELFUND desk officer appealed for patience, explaining that the refund process is being carried out in phases. She disclosed that about 3,000 students have already received payments, with additional batches scheduled for disbursement.

Officials maintained that administrative and technical challenges may have slowed the process but assured that efforts are ongoing to complete all pending refunds.

The development highlights ongoing challenges in the implementation of student loan schemes in Nigeria, particularly around coordination, transparency, and timely disbursement.