Yakubu Dogara, former House Speaker and current Chancellor of Achievers University in Owo, Ondo State, has urged the federal government to broaden the reach of its Students’ Loan Scheme to encompass students enrolled in private universities.
Speaking during the 13th convocation event on Saturday, at Achievers University, Dogara emphasized the importance of extending the program to benefit young individuals attending both public and private tertiary institutions.
President Bola Tinubu initiated the Students Loan Scheme as a temporary measure to address the challenges arising from the removal of fuel subsidy.
Dogara commended the current administration for the scheme but urged the government to consider the inclusion of private university students in order to provide relief for all Nigerian students.
He appealed “To the Federal Government to consider the plight being faced by students of tertiary institutions. While commending the Students’ Loan Scheme of this present administration, I join my voice in the call for the inclusion of private university students in the Students’ Loan Scheme of this administration as part of the palliative measures since they are also Nigerians.
“The scheme should also be properly managed for the benefit of the teeming youths of this country.”
The introduction of student loans by President Tinubu aimed to alleviate the financial burden on students following an increase in higher education tuition fees.
Ada Peter
