The Governing Council of the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) has refuted allegations that funds from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) meant for students were diverted by the institution’s management.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Registrar and Secretary to Council, Sambo Mohammed, the Council, chaired by Senator Olanrewaju Tejuoso, described the report as misleading and lacking factual basis.

The Council stated that no NELFUND funds have been diverted, misappropriated, or unlawfully withheld by the University or any of its officials. It stressed that the institution operates strictly within established financial regulations and upholds accountability in the management of all funds.

According to the statement, the Council took note of an official clarification issued by Nigerian Education Loan Fund through its Directorate of Strategic Communications, which indicated that there is no verified evidence supporting the allegation. The clarification, the Council said, confirms that the media report does not reflect the true state of affairs.

The Council further emphasised that the University has consistently complied with all guidelines governing the disbursement and utilisation of funds under intervention schemes, including NELFUND, in line with extant regulations. It added that the institution maintains strict internal controls to ensure transparency and due process in financial administration.

While urging the public and stakeholders to disregard the report, the Council advised that only verified information from credible and official sources should be relied upon in matters concerning the University.

“Council states clearly that 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 Governing Council reiterates its confidence in the University’s Management, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, and its ongoing commitment to transparency, due process, and institutional integrity,” the statement reads.

The statement reaffirmed the University’s dedication to its mandate as a centre for academic excellence and national unity, while assuring students and stakeholders that all intervention funds are handled in accordance with the law and relevant guidelines.