Student leaders in Anambra State have announced a ₦10.7 million contribution toward President Bola Tinubu's re-election interest form for the 2027 elections. The donation, made by beneficiaries of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), highlights the impact of the federal government's student loan programme on their lives.
Donation Announcement at COOU
The announcement was made at the ETF Hall of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam campus. The initiative was led by the South-East chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), with Ifeanyichukwu Chukwuemeka, Chairman of the NANS Joint Campus Council in Anambra State, spearheading the event. He described the donation as a symbolic expression of gratitude for President Tinubu's educational reforms.
Key Figures in the Mobilisation
Several notable individuals were involved in coordinating the effort. Okoye Mathew Okpala, former Special Assistant to Governor Soludo on Student Matters, served as a coordinator. Business mogul Obi Cubana, recognized as the South-East Coordinator of the City Boys Movement, was commended for his role in youth mobilisation. Nonso Ozoemena, State Coordinator for the group, was also praised for leadership development. The student groups have set a target to mobilise over 20,000 youths across the South-East to support Tinubu's potential 2027 bid.
Impact of NELFUND
The students credited the NELFUND programme with preventing dropouts and enabling them to continue their education. As of early 2026, the Federal Government had disbursed ₦86 billion to 449,000 students across Nigeria. The programme aims to ensure that no student is denied education due to financial constraints. The donation of ₦10.7 million is intended for the expression of interest form under the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is the first official step for contesting office under the party platform.
Public Reaction and Controversy
The donation sparked debate on social media, with many Nigerians questioning why loan beneficiaries would fund political campaigns during an economic downturn. Critics expressed disappointment, arguing that students should focus on advocating for better education rather than financing political ambitions. Similar reports have emerged from other regions, including Kogi State, where youth groups donated ₦100 million, and northern youth organisations that pledged ₦200 million for Tinubu's possible second-term bid.
