By Ifeanyi Uwagwu
The President of the Student Union Government (SUG) of the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Comrade Augustine Onovughegor has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for instituting the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
In an open letter dated 20th January 2025, Comrade Onovughegor lauded the initiative, describing it as a transformative step that has significantly reduced the dropout rate and improved accessibility to education for students.
The NELFUND programme, according to Onovughegor, has been instrumental in addressing the financial challenges faced by students, ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria through education.
He called for continued efforts in such impactful projects to enhance the welfare of the student body.
However, the DELSU SUG President distanced himself from the rice palliative designated for the student union leaders.
Recall that the Special Adviser to the President on Students Engagement, Asefon Sunday, announced the distribution of rice to undergraduates in Abuja, last week. Asefon said that the gesture was part of President Tinubu’s support for students, with SUG Presidents nationwide scheduled to receive their rice allocations soon.
In his letter, Comrade Onovughegor outlined his reasons for rejecting the palliative, emphasising the logistical and strategic impracticality of the initiative.
He highlighted that the transportation costs for conveying the rice to Delta State are nearly equivalent to purchasing the same quantity locally, thus undermining the intended purpose of the gesture.
The SUG president also raised concerns about the accessibility of the palliative, stating that it does not adequately reach the wider student population.
Instead, Onovughegor urged the administration to explore alternative and sustainable means of supporting students, such as enhancing existing welfare programmes.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for initiatives that directly address the needs of students, ensuring equitable and meaningful support.
