NANS demands prompt refund of NELFUND payments, warns institution

Beyond the NELFUND refund issue, NANS Zone C called on institutions across the North-Central region to reassess their fee structures and remove charges that unnecessarily increase the financial burden on students.

The association criticised excessive late-payment penalties, hidden charges and other levies that it considered unfair to students facing genuine financial difficulties.

Babatunde argued that students who are unable to meet payment deadlines because of financial challenges should not be subjected to additional inflated charges.

He said institutions should also ensure that students receive value for the money paid through the provision of adequate facilities and services.

NANS Zone C specifically called for improved lecture halls, properly equipped laboratories, decent hostels, healthcare services, reliable water supply and electricity across campuses.

The association urged authorities in tertiary institutions across Kwara, Benue, Niger, Kogi, Plateau and Nasarawa states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory, to improve accountability and prioritise student welfare.

On security, the students’ body appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services and other relevant agencies to strengthen protection around campuses and neighbouring communities.

NANS Zone C also issued a two-week deadline to institutions within the region that have yet to conduct Students’ Union Government elections.

The association said affected institutions should begin and complete their electoral processes within the stipulated period, warning that failure to do so could lead to what it described as legitimate and constitutional actions by the student body.