The House of Representatives Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing, has congratulated the founder of Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc, Mr Jim Ovia, over his appointment as Chairman of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
Recall that President Bola Tinubu appointed Ovia the Chairman of NELFUND on Friday, April 26, 2024, in line with the extant law signed on April 3, 2024, which empowers the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to appoint the board and management of the Fund.
In a congratulatory letter dated May 2, made available to journalists on Monday and addressed to the ace banker, Chairman of the Committee, Adegboyega Isiaka lauded Ovia for his leadership and intellect over the years, stressing that his experience would steer the scheme to greater heights.
The letter read in part, “It is with great pleasure that I on behalf of the House Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing, congratulate you on your appointment as Chairman of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund by His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, pursuant to Section 7 (1)(a) of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund Act of 2024.
“Your distinguished career exemplifies visionary leadership and commitment to excellence, especially in the financial sector.
“As a boardroom guru imbued with great intellect and drive, your proven strategic thinking and managerial acumen make you uniquely qualified for this pivotal role.
The letter added, “The Fund and its board will undoubtedly benefit from your financial expertise and visionary prowess and with your guidance, gain renewed focus to fulfil the mission of ensuring accessible higher education for all students, irrespective of their financial circumstances.”
Isiaka who represents Egbado North/Imeko Afon Federal Constituency, Ogun State, noted that for the Fund to achieve its mandate, strong leadership and integrity are vital.
“Expanding access to higher education financing has played a significant role in the socio-economic development of nations. For this scheme to succeed and be sustainable, strong leadership with technical expertise, innovation, passion and integrity is crucial- qualities you embody.
“Once again, please accept my heartfelt congratulations. As Chairman House Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing, I, alongside other committee members, in providing our oversight and other functions, look forward to collaborating with you and your board to ensure the success of this initiative of President Bola Tinubu.
“Together, with a common commitment, we can build on this scheme not only as a key part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President but also of the overarching goal of using education as a tool for fighting poverty in our nation,” the letter further read.
