Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta Muslim Alumni has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the launch of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, describing same as more than a loan but a beacon of hope.

MAPAMA made the commendation, Friday, in a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Moruf Kazeem.

It described the gesture as a demonstration of unwavering commitment to education and youth empowerment in the country, saying it aimed at revolutionizing access to higher education in Nigeria.

The association urged Nigerians to rally behind the initiative, celebrate its launch, and join in the move to propel Nigeria toward a brighter future.

MAPAMA restates that President Tinubu’s vision for NELFUND "reflects his dedication to providing equal opportunities for all Nigerian students", adding that by actualising the student loan scheme, he has taken a significant step toward bridging the educational gap and fostering a knowledge-driven society.

"We salute President Tinubu for translating words into action, ensuring that education remains a priority on the national agenda" Kazeem noted.

The Association however cautions FG that the scheme should not be converted to a political tool, rather, should be made to become a lifeline for aspiring scholars.

It said: "Let us rise above partisan lines and recognize its transformative potential. We urge politicians and stakeholders to refrain from using NELFUND as a bargaining chip. Our students deserve better - unbiased access to quality education".

Meanwhile, the association has called on would be beneficiaries to embrace the new initiative, asserting that NELFUND loans are not a "mere slice of the national cake; rather, they are a lifeline for dreams. Let us view them as an investment in our collective future".

"To students, your education is your passport to success. Use this opportunity wisely, and repay with gratitude by contributing to the society" Kazeem counseled.

In the same vein, it tasked employers of labour to play a crucial role in NELFUND’s success, specifying that when the time comes for loan repayment, they should cooperate fully, by  supporting recovery efforts, in order ensure sustainability of the fund and empower future generations.

Beyond the scheme, MAPAMA implored President Tinubu to focus on broader economic variables, calling on authorities to ensure that refineries work efficiently, local refining of crude oil to thrive and tax generation drive should be progressive in nature.

Similarly, it reminded that power is central to productive economy, urging the present administration to invest in energy infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply for businesses and homes.