Jim Ovia becomes Chairman Board of NELFUNF
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Jim Ovia, a prominent banker and businessman, as the Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
In a statement issued by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, on Friday, President Tinubu expects Ovia to use his extensive experience and professional reputation to advance the crucial mission of ensuring that no Nigerian student’s pursuit of higher education is hindered by financial constraints.
According to the statement, the President is determined to guarantee that Nigerian youths, regardless of their backgrounds, have access to higher education and the skills necessary for them to become productive members of society and valuable contributors to the knowledge-based global economy of the 21st century.
With an educational background that includes studies at Harvard Business School and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana, Ovia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
The National Student Loan Programme is a crucial initiative aimed at ensuring sustainable higher education and functional skill development for all Nigerian students and youths.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund, tasked with implementing this initiative, requires individuals of exceptional professionalism and caliber to provide guidance and oversight, as highlighted in the statement.
On April 3, President Tinubu signed the National Students Loan Amendment bill into law.
The amended bill was signed after he initially signed the student loan bill into law in June 2023 to offer financial assistance to Nigerian students in tertiary institutions.
By Oluwaseyi Ajibade
