By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO — Sokoto State University (SSU) is witnessing a transformation in its academic landscape as more students access loans under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a development that is easing financial constraints and expanding access to higher education.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Bello Yarima, disclosed on Tuesday that the NELFUND initiative is helping students from Sokoto State and beyond meet tuition and other academic expenses, complementing ongoing financial support from the Sokoto State Government under Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.

“The combined support from NELFUND and the state government has significantly reduced the financial burden on students and families, encouraging wider participation in higher education,” Yarima said.

The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted major infrastructure projects enhancing academic standards at the university. He noted that former Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko is constructing a state-of-the-art library, which will improve research, learning, and digital access for students and lecturers.

Prof. Yarima further revealed that Governor Ahmed Aliyu is committed to completing the university’s Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, paving the way for a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme in the North-West region.

In addition, the state government has initiated renovations of staff quarters and plans to establish primary and secondary schools on campus to benefit the university community and nearby rural settlements. The Vice-Chancellor also noted that nearly 90 percent of female students are accommodated on campus, providing safety and convenience.

According to Yarima, the synergy of government support, national education financing, and infrastructure development is positioning Sokoto State University as a growing centre of academic excellence in Nigeria.