NELFUND: UNIMAID, ABU, and UNILORIN Rank Among Top Institutions with Highest Student Applications

 NELFUND: UNIMAID, ABU, and UNILORIN Rank Among Top Institutions with Highest Student Applications

The Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) continues to gain massive traction among students across the country. As financial pressure increases for many families, more undergraduates are turning to the government-backed loan scheme for support.

According to recent data released by Nairalytics, these are the Top 10 Nigerian institutions with the highest number of NELFUND loan applications as of October 2025.

1. University of Maiduguri (Borno) – 85,050 Applicants

UNIMAID tops the list with the highest number of student loan applications. The institution’s large student population and high financial needs among students are major contributors to this figure.

2. Bayero University, Kano – 54,419 Applicants

BUK ranks second, reflecting strong awareness and adoption of the NELFUND initiative in Northern Nigeria.

3. Federal University Dutsin-Ma (Katsina) – 50,737 Applicants

FUDMA maintains high participation, likely due to increasing enrollment and growing reliance on federal assistance for tuition and upkeep.

4. Ahmadu Bello University (Kaduna) – 46,663 Applicants

As one of Nigeria’s largest universities, ABU’s presence on the list is expected. Its broad demographic reach plays a key role.

5. University of Ilorin (Kwara) – 44,735 Applicants

UNILORIN, known for its stable academic calendar, emerges among the top five. The high application count signals students’ strong engagement with the NELFUND program.

6. University of Jos (Plateau State) – 35,913 Applicants

UNIJOS students have also embraced the loan scheme as economic pressures continue to rise.

7. Usmanu Danfodiyo University (Sokoto) – 35,714 Applicants

UDUS maintains a close margin with UNIJOS, reflecting strong North-West participation.

8. Federal University of Kashere (Gombe) – 34,208 Applicants

The institution’s growing student base and increased awareness of NELFUND contribute to its position.

9. Taraba State University – 32,030 Applicants

TASU’s appearance in the top 10 highlights the growing financial needs among state university students.

10. University of Uyo (Akwa Ibom State) – 31,826 Applicants

UNIUYO rounds out the list, representing the South-South region with strong adoption numbers.