The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is urging the government to ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement and management of the student loan program.
This is obtained in a statement issued on Friday in Abeokuta by Mr Pedro Obi, the National President of NANS, who urged the Federal government to appoint individuals of unquestionable integrity and competence to oversee the scheme.
The successful implementation and long-term viability of the student loan scheme depend on transparency, according to the National President of NANS.
While applauding President Bola Tinubu’s administration for launching the initiative, Obi emphasized the importance of involving all stakeholders in the scheme’s execution to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability.
” The loan if properly implemented will not only alleviate the financial burdens faced by many students and their families, but is capable of ending the mass exodus of Nigerian students outside the country for studies.
“To ensure the success and integrity of the student loan scheme, we urge the Federal government to prioritise transparency and accountability in the disbursement of the loans.
” This must be done by engaging all relevant stakeholders.
“We also urge the government to put in place transparent and effective monitoring mechanisms to track the disbursement process and ensure that funds are allocated appropriately.
” This includes regular audits, public reporting, and feedback channels for students to report any issues or irregularities.
“The loan scheme should be designed to be inclusive and accessible to all eligible students, regardless of their socio-economic background,” he said.
The amended Student Loan Bill became law after National Assembly passage on March 20 and President Tinubu’s assent on April 3.
