In a move aimed at bolstering access to higher education for Nigerian students, President Bola Tinubu has appointed renowned businessman Jim Ovia, the founder of Zenith Bank, as the chairman of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) board.
The announcement came via a State House press release issued on Friday, underscoring Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring that financial constraints do not impede the pursuit of higher education among Nigerian youths.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the spokesperson for the presidency, hailed Ovia as a respected business leader known for his dedication to nurturing and empowering young Nigerians. Ngelale highlighted Ovia’s academic background, citing his credentials as an alumnus of Harvard Business School with a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana.
Speaking on the significance of the appointment, Ngelale emphasized the pivotal role of the National Student Loan Programme in ensuring sustainable higher education and skill development for Nigerian students and youths. He stressed the importance of having individuals of exceptional professionalism to steer the Nigerian Education Loan Fund towards excellence.
Ngelale expressed confidence that Ovia’s vast experience and professional stature would be instrumental in advancing the vision of providing equitable access to higher education for all Nigerian students, regardless of their financial circumstances. He underscored the importance of empowering Nigerian youths with education and skills essential for their success in the knowledge-based global economy of the 21st century.
Tinubu’s appointment of Jim Ovia as chairman of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund reflects a strategic move towards addressing the challenges of educational financing and fostering socio-economic development through enhanced access to higher education in Nigeria.
