MAKURDI — Students of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University in Makurdi have praised the Nigerian Education Loan Fund's student financing programme, saying the intervention has helped beneficiaries manage the financial demands of tertiary education. Student representatives said thousands of students at the institution had benefited from the programme. The support comes at a time when the cost of tertiary education and living expenses has placed increasing pressure on students and their families. For students from low-income households, financial difficulties can affect their ability to pay institutional charges, purchase learning materials or meet other academic expenses. Student financing can provide relief by spreading the financial burden and allowing students to remain enrolled. Beneficiaries said the programme had helped reduce some of the financial pressure associated with their education. However, access to financing also requires students to understand the terms and conditions attached to the support. Clear communication is important because beneficiaries need to know how and when repayment obligations arise. Universities can assist by providing orientation and guidance. Institutions also have a responsibility to ensure that student records are accurate when applications are processed. Errors in personal or academic information can delay payments and create difficulties for students. Digital application systems can improve efficiency but may also create challenges for applicants who lack reliable internet access. University support desks can help students navigate online procedures. Student financing can have a wider impact on academic performance. Students who are less worried about immediate financial pressures may be able to devote more time to their studies. However, financial assistance alone cannot guarantee academic success. Students also need qualified lecturers, learning materials, functional facilities and supportive academic environments. The programme therefore works best when combined with broader investment in tertiary education. The experience at JOSTUM illustrates the potential role of student loans in expanding access. Students who might otherwise consider dropping out because of financial difficulties can have an additional means of continuing their programmes. This can help institutions retain students and improve completion rates. Long-term sustainability remains important. As more students receive support, government and NELFUND will need systems for tracking beneficiaries and managing repayments. Graduates should be given clear information about repayment procedures and available options. Employment opportunities will influence repayment capacity, making graduate employability an important part of the wider education policy discussion. Universities can help by strengthening career guidance and industry partnerships. Students need opportunities to acquire practical skills that employers value. The loan programme can also contribute to social mobility. Access to higher education can improve employment prospects and income potential, particularly when students complete relevant programmes successfully. For that reason, student financing should be viewed as an investment in human capital rather than simply short-term financial assistance. The positive response from students at JOSTUM reflects the immediate value of financial support for those facing educational costs. Continued monitoring will be necessary to ensure that the programme remains transparent, accessible and sustainable. If properly managed, student financing can help more Nigerians complete tertiary education and develop skills needed for the country's future workforce.