NELFUND Warns Against Fake Student Loan Portal, Urges Public Vigilance

ABUJA – The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has issued a critical warning to Nigerian students and the general public concerning a fake student loan portal currently being circulated across social media and messaging platforms. The alert comes as a protective measure amid increasing cyber fraud targeting education-based financial services.

In a statement released on Monday, NELFUND disclosed that it had become aware of a fraudulent message falsely claiming that President Bola Tinubu had authorized the reopening of the NELFUND Student Loan portal. The deceptive message included a web link purporting to direct applicants to a loan application platform.

“The attention of NELFUND has been drawn to a fraudulent message currently circulating online, falsely claiming that President Bola Tinubu has directed the reopening of the NELFUND Student Loan portal,” the statement read. “The portal is with a link to a fake website: https://nelfund-student-loan-2025.po-rt-al.com/NELFUND/.”

Fake Site Poses Major Threat to Data Security

The agency categorically dismissed the site as fraudulent, warning users not to fall for the scam or share any personal information through the fake portal. “We wish to categorically state that this website is FAKE, and the information contained in the message is false and misleading,” NELFUND emphasized.

According to the Fund, the only legitimate website for all student loan-related applications is https://nelf.gov.ng. Any other platform not bearing the official domain should be regarded as a scam intended to steal sensitive data such as identity details, bank information, and student credentials.

NELFUND urged students, parents, and guardians to exercise extreme caution when engaging with unsolicited links or messages, especially those that appear urgent or too good to be true. Fraudsters often exploit trust in government initiatives to lure unsuspecting users into disclosing confidential information.

Reaffirming Transparency and Security in the Loan Process

As Nigeria continues to expand its educational financing options, particularly under the leadership of President Tinubu who has prioritized access to education and student support, NELFUND reassured the public of its commitment to fair, secure, and transparent processes.

The Fund emphasized that all official announcements, including loan application openings, updates, and procedures, will always be communicated exclusively through its verified communication platforms.

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In line with this commitment, NELFUND reiterated that no third-party agents or unofficial portals have been authorized to act on its behalf. “NELFUND is committed to maintaining a transparent and secure process for all applicants,” the agency noted.

Public Engagement and Reporting Channels Provided

To further bolster trust and protect students from digital scams, NELFUND encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious links, websites, or messages to the Fund via email at info@nelf.gov.ng.

Additionally, the Fund highlighted its verified social media handles for official updates and inquiries. These include:

• X (formerly Twitter): @nelfund
• Instagram: @nelfund
• Facebook & LinkedIn: Nigerian Education Loan Fund – NELFUND

These platforms are manned by NELFUND’s communications team, ensuring that users receive accurate information and can interact directly with the agency when needed.

A Growing Concern Amid Rising Cyber Fraud

This warning comes at a time of increased concern over cyber fraud, particularly in the education and financial sectors. With Nigeria’s ongoing digital transformation, scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting large groups such as students who may be actively seeking financial support.

Education analysts say this latest scam underscores the importance of digital literacy and government intervention to secure online platforms. Many young applicants, eager for educational funding, may not double-check the legitimacy of online portals, especially when links are shared by friends or acquaintances.

The Nigerian government, through NELFUND, has positioned the student loan scheme as a vital component of President Tinubu’s social agenda to improve access to tertiary education. The loan initiative is designed to support students in public higher institutions, helping cover tuition and other essential academic expenses.

Stay Alert, Stay Informed

In conclusion, NELFUND’s message is clear: the public must remain vigilant and treat every online interaction with caution, especially when it involves financial or personal data. Students are urged to depend solely on verified sources for all updates concerning loan applications and disbursements.

As the government pushes forward its education reform agenda, public trust and cybersecurity will play key roles in ensuring successful implementation. NELFUND’s proactive approach in identifying and countering digital threats is a step in the right direction to protect students and their academic futures.