The federal government has spent N2.086 billion through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for students of higher institutions across the North-West.

Mukhtar Lawal-Tsagem, director, National Orientation Agency, Katsina State Directorate, disclosed this in Katsina on Tuesday, while highlighting the achievements of President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Lawal-Tsagem disclosed this at a one-day sensitisation programme, saying the funds were disbursed to about 20,919 students of higher institutions across the North-West states.

The exercise, premised on the North-West milestones, was organised by the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

According to him, the federal government has made its presence felt in the zone in the areas of agriculture and security.

Mr Lawal-Tsagem said, “In Kebbi, wheat farmers in 12 local government areas were supported via the NAGAP programme. Ginger farmers in Kaduna State received N1.6 billion in support.

“The N2 billion Yawuri Water Scheme is one of the infrastructural projects of the federal government in the region.

“NELFUND programme, where students of higher institutions in the country receive interest-free loans that will help them pay school fees and cater to their study needs.”

The director hinted that one of the ministry’s major functions was to keep the general public informed about government programmes, activities, and policies, as well as mobilising them to support and appreciate the same.

Adamu Muhammed, a lecturer at the Department of Public Administration, Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, in a paper presentation, said the region should continue to be grateful to the present administration for its laudable project.

“I want to call on them to cultivate goodwill with him and his government so that the region can continue to reap the benefits of this goodwill,” Mr Muhammed said.

(NAN)