The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that no qualified student will be denied access to tertiary education because of financial hardship, saying the Tinubu administration has invested over ₦1 trillion in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education while expanding student-focused financing initiatives.
The Federal Government says it has removed major financial barriers preventing qualified Nigerians from accessing higher education through a combination of infrastructure investments, student loans and institutional support.
Speaking in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the administration of President Bola Tinubu has committed more than ₦1 trillion to the tertiary education sector over the past two years as part of efforts to improve access, infrastructure and the quality of learning.
“Poverty Should Not Stop Any Qualified Student”
According to Alausa, no academically qualified Nigerian should lose the opportunity to pursue higher education because of financial challenges.
He said government interventions, particularly through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and capital investments in institutions, are designed to ensure that students from low-income families can complete their education.
₦1 Trillion Invested in Tertiary Education
The minister said the funds have been deployed to:
- Upgrade infrastructure in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.
- Construct and rehabilitate student hostels.
- Improve laboratories and medical training facilities.
- Expand access to modern teaching and learning equipment.
- Support student financing through NELFUND.
He added that the reforms are part of the administration’s broader strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s human capital and produce globally competitive graduates.
Focus on Student-Centred Reforms
The Federal Government said its education agenda combines infrastructure development with financial assistance to reduce the burden on students and their families.
Officials maintained that expanding access to higher education remains central to achieving long-term economic growth and developing a skilled workforce.