LAUTECH Best Graduate with 4.89 CGPA Credits NELFUND Loan for First-Class Success

Follow

( 0 Followers )

X

Follow

E-mail : *

Follow Unfollow

An inspiring story of resilience and academic excellence is gaining attention across Nigeria, as the best graduating student of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) has credited a federal student loan scheme for making his achievement possible.

Oladepo, who emerged as the top graduate for the 2025 academic session with an outstanding 4.89 CGPA in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, revealed that the government-backed Nigerian Education Loan Fund played a decisive role in his success.

Speaking ahead of the university’s convocation, the Osun State indigene explained that the interest-free loan, introduced in 2024, covered his tuition and eased financial pressure on his family—allowing him to fully concentrate on his studies.

“My first-class degree would not have been possible without NELFUND,” he said.

His story has quickly gone viral, drawing praise from many Nigerians who see it as proof that financial support can unlock the potential of talented students from low-income backgrounds. Some students have described the loan scheme as a “lifesaver” amid growing economic challenges.

However, the development has also reignited debate about the rising cost of tertiary education. Critics argue that while the loan provides relief, it may not fully address concerns over increased tuition fees in public universities. At LAUTECH, for instance, session fees are reported to be around ₦300,000.

Since its rollout, NELFUND has supported over 1.3 million students across 288 institutions nationwide. The scheme pays tuition directly to schools and provides upkeep stipends, with repayment scheduled to begin only after beneficiaries complete the National Youth Service Corps and secure employment.

For many observers, Oladepo’s achievement stands as a powerful example of how targeted financial aid can transform lives. Others, however, are calling for greater transparency and long-term sustainability in the funding model.

As conversations continue, the story highlights both the determination of Nigeria’s youth and the ongoing challenges surrounding access to quality higher education.