By Felix Khanoba
The Governing Council of the University of Abuja hl(UniAbuja) has dismissed a media report alleging diversion of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) meant for students by the institution’s management.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by its Secretary and Acting Registrar, Mal Sambo Mohammed. the Council, under the chairmanship of Senator Olanrewaju Tejuoso, said the allegation was unfounded and did not reflect the true position of affairs.
The Council stated clearly that “no NELFUND funds have been diverted, misappropriated, or unlawfully withheld by the University or any of its officials.”
It also referenced an official clarification issued by NELFUND through its Directorate of Strategic Communications, which it said confirmed that there was no verified evidence to support the allegation.
According to the statement, the University of Abuja operates within established financial regulations and maintains strict accountability in the management of all funds.
“No NELFUND funds have been diverted, misappropriated, or unlawfully withheld by the University or any of its officials.
“Council further notes the official clarification issued by NELFUND, through its Directorate of Strategic Communications that there is no verified evidence to support the allegation, and that the report does not reflect the true position of affairs.
“The University of Abuja operates within established financial regulations and maintains strict accountability in the management of all funds,” the statement said.
The Council added that the institution has consistently adhered to all guidelines governing the disbursement and utilisation of funds under intervention schemes, including NELFUND, in line with extant regulations.
It therefore urged the public and all stakeholders to disregard what it described as a misleading media report and rely on verified information from credible sources.
The Council further reiterated its confidence in the University’s management led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, noting its ongoing commitment to transparency, due process and institutional integrity.
