National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Chuks Peter, Delta
Nigerian President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has affirmed that the student loan Programme is not a “scam” or “audio” (non-existent). He noted that over 70,000 Nigerian students have applied for the loan, which will be disbursed shortly.
President Tinubu made this statement on Monday at the National Students Leadership and Mentorship Summit organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) at the PTI Conference Centre in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
Tinubu, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Hon. Sunday Adedayo Asefon, reiterated that the student loan Programme is legitimate.
According to him, “Over seventy thousand (70,000) Nigerian students have applied for the loan. I assure you that in no distant time the loan will be paid to beneficiaries.”
He added that the loan would benefit state institutions, polytechnics, monotechnics, colleges of education, and other higher institutions.
On his part, the Minister for Youth Development, Hon. Ayo Akinwande, also represented by Asefon, emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to ensuring that students in the country have access to quality education.
In a keynote address, the National President of NANS, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, stressed the importance of students understanding their roles in sustaining democracy and nation-building as future leaders.
Comrade Emonefe said, “We must actively participate in the political process, hold our leaders accountable, and advocate for policies that benefit the Nigerian people.”
He added, “This summit provides us with an opportunity to come together, exchange ideas, and strategise on how we can contribute to the development of our country.
“We must strive for a Nigeria that is free from corruption, injustice, and inequality. Our goal should be to create a Nigeria that offers equal opportunities to all citizens, regardless of their background.”
As leaders of Nigerian students, Emonefe reiterated the need to remain committed to representing the interests of their members effectively.
During the event, Comrade Emonefe conferred the “NANS Outstanding Personality of the Year” award on the General/Chief Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, for his contributions to student development across the country.
In his acceptance speech, Kyari’s representative, Dapo Abiodun, expressed gratitude for the honour.
Additionally, the Executive Director of Business Development at NEXIM Bank, Hon. Stella Okotete, received an award for her contributions to NANS’ development.
Dr. Paddy Iyamo accepted the award on her behalf, noting that the recognition would motivate her to do more for the student body.
The summit was well-attended by students from across the country, marking a significant event for NANS.
