The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone C, has praised the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, for promoting transparency and expanding students’ access to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). The association also urged the university to intensify efforts to improve campus security, student welfare and learning facilities.
The commendation was made during a courtesy visit by the NANS Zone C President, Comrade Hassani Jamilu, and his delegation to the Vice Chancellor on July 3, 2026. The visit formed part of the association’s campus tour aimed at assessing students’ welfare and strengthening collaboration with university management.
Speaking during the meeting, Jamilu said the engagement provided an opportunity to interact with students, student leaders and other stakeholders on issues affecting academic life and campus development. He commended the university management for maintaining an open-door policy and prioritising students’ welfare.
He appealed to the university to ensure that students who had already paid their tuition fees receive refunds once their NELFUND payments are credited to the institution. He also called for greater support for financially challenged students and encouraged stronger collaboration with the Students’ Union Government in addressing students’ concerns.
The NANS leader further raised concerns over security challenges around the Felele and Crusher areas, urging the university to strengthen measures that would guarantee the safety of students on and around the campuses.
Responding, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, appreciated the visit and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to excellence, discipline, integrity and quality service delivery.
He disclosed that the number of NELFUND beneficiaries at the university has grown from about 2,400 to more than 12,000 students, adding that efforts are ongoing to ensure more eligible students benefit from the scheme.
On tuition refunds, Professor Ibileye revealed that the university is introducing a student wallet system to simplify the reimbursement process. He assured the delegation that there were no outstanding issues with NELFUND implementation, noting that the Bursary Department was already handling the necessary procedures.
The Vice Chancellor also outlined reforms in the university’s financial administration, explaining that funds would be decentralised to faculties, departments and directorates to improve efficiency while maintaining strict accountability through monitoring and auditing mechanisms.
Speaking on infrastructure development, he said the university is working towards constructing a pedestrian bridge across the highway leading to the campus and acquiring additional buses to improve transportation between the Adankolo and Felele campuses.
He added that plans are in place to procure five electric buses from China, 20 solar-powered electric tricycles for movement within the campuses and other projects aimed at enhancing mobility, safety and the overall learning environment for students.
