The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has provided valuable insights into the student loan registration process across the country.
Below, we explore the top five states with the highest student loan registrations, offering a detailed overview of the factors contributing to their impressive numbers.
1. Kano State
- Number of Registered Students: 20,814
- Number of Students Who Applied After Registering: 17,122
- Percentage Applied: 82.3%
Kano State tops the list with the highest number of student loan registrations. With over 20,000 students registered, the state has demonstrated a strong commitment to higher education, possibly driven by its large population and robust educational infrastructure. The high percentage of students who followed through with applications (82.3%) indicates effective awareness campaigns and support systems in place to assist students in accessing financial aid.
2. Borno State
- Number of Registered Students: 16,353
- Number of Students Who Applied After Registering: 13,798
- Percentage Applied: 84.4%
Despite the challenges posed by insecurity, Borno State ranks second, with a commendable registration figure. The state’s educational authorities and institutions have clearly worked hard to ensure that students are aware of and utilize the opportunities provided by NELFUND. The fact that 84.4% of registered students proceeded to apply for loans is a testament to the state’s resilience and focus on education as a tool for empowerment.
3. Benue State
- Number of Registered Students: 16,127
- Number of Students Who Applied After Registering: 11,754
- Percentage Applied: 72.9%
Benue State, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has also made significant strides in student loan registrations. The state’s education system appears well-organized, as reflected in the high registration numbers. However, the application follow-through rate is slightly lower at 72.9%, indicating a potential area for improvement in helping students complete the loan application process.
4. Oyo State
- Number of Registered Students: 14,086
- Number of Students Who Applied After Registering: 8,990
- Percentage Applied: 63.8%
Oyo State, with its rich history in education, particularly higher education, secures the fourth position. The state’s capital, Ibadan, is home to Nigeria’s first university, and this legacy of academic excellence continues to influence student participation in programs like NELFUND. However, Oyo State has the lowest application percentage among the top five, at 63.8%, suggesting a need for more targeted efforts to ensure that registered students complete their applications.
5. Kaduna State
- Number of Registered Students: 13,873
- Number of Students Who Applied After Registering: 10,380
- Percentage Applied: 74.8%
Kaduna State rounds out the top five, with nearly 14,000 students registering for the NELFUND student loan program. The state’s commitment to education is evident in its strong application rate of 74.8%. Kaduna has long been a hub for educational development in Northern Nigeria, and its performance in the NELFUND registration process reflects this tradition.
