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Archive May 4, 2025

Student Loan: No ₦71bn Missing, Stolen From Scheme, NELFUND Insists

 The Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) insists no money is missing from the student loan scheme despite claims to the contrary. 

A recent report had alleged that some schools were diverting money meant for the scheme operated by NELFUND. That prompted the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to launch an investigation into the matter.

However, NELFUND’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Akintunde Sawyerr, said the fund has a clean bill of health.

“We are all looking for this so-called money. First of all, let me be very clear. No money has been stolen. The President, in his wisdom and well-intentioned programme, decided that he was going to set up the Nigeria Education Loan Fund,” Sawyerr said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.

“But let me go back and just continue to correct this misconception. No N71bn is missing,” Sawyerr insisted.

READ ALSO [Student Loan] NELFund Denies Alleged Corruption, ICPC Clarifies Statement

He added, “So the funds that we’ve been given are to bridge the gap for those who don’t have the money to be able to attain the education. No money is missing. No money has been stolen. There had been some issues with what happened at this phase, where human intervention comes in.”

“No money is missing. No money has been stolen. There’d be some issues with what happens at this phase, where human intervention comes in,” the NELFUND boss said.

Since the inception of the scheme, some parents and students have complained of delayed payment, and in many instances, the money has not been getting to the beneficiaries.

The NELFUND chief, however, said funds are not disbursed to the students.

“Let me correct a misconception there. There is no disbursement from the NELFUND account through the schools to the students. The NELFUND money goes to the schools for their tuition or institutional charges. The schools are supposed to give unfettered access to the students for classes.

“The schools do not disburse to the students, except in the case where the student has already paid their fees, in which case there has been a double payment,” he said.

Student Loan: No ₦71bn Missing, Stolen From Scheme, NELFUND Insists

Despite claims that the contrary, The Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) insists that no money is missing from the student loan program. &nbsp,

According to a recent report, some schools were diverting money from the NELFUND-run program. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) launched an investigation into the matter in response to that.

Akintunde Sawyerr, the fund’s Managing Director and CEO, claimed the fund has a current health situation.

“We are all searching for this phony currency,” the statement read. Let me start by being very clear. There hasn’t been any theft. On Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Sawyerr stated that the President made the decision to establish the Nigeria Education Loan Fund in his wisdom and good intentions.

“But let me turn around and just keep correcting this misunderstanding.” No N71 billion is missing, he resisted Sawyerr.

NELFund denies allegations of corruption, and the ICPC makes a statement clear.

He continued, “The funds that we’ve been given are to bridge the gap for those who don’t have the money to get the education.” No money has been lost. There hasn’t been any theft. There were some issues with what transpired at this point, which calls for human intervention.

No money has been missing,” the statement read. There hasn’t been any theft. The NELFUND boss said there might be some issues with what transpires at this point, which would require human intervention.

Some parents and students have complained about delayed payment since the scheme’s inception, and in many cases, the funds haven’t been reaching the beneficiaries.

However, the NELFUND chief claimed that the funds are not being distributed to students.

“Let me correct that misperception here. The students are not reimbursed for the NELFUND account through the schools. The schools receive funding for their tuition or fees at the institution. The instructors are supposed to give students unrestricted access to classes.

He said, “The schools do not disburse to the students, except in cases where the student has already paid their fees, and there has been a double payment.

Victoria and Harper Beckham twin in matching dresses for David’s lavish 50th birthday party

The Beckhams shared a series of family-focused snaps, giving fans a glimpse into the lavish Notting Hill do thrown to mark David’s 50th birthday on Saturday night

Victoria and Harper Beckham twin in matching dresses for David’s lavish 50th birthday party(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

Victoria and Harper Beckham stunned fans in matching navy maxi dresses, as they stepped out to celebrate David’s 50th birthday party. The iconic former footballer was joined by a host of his nearest and dearest as he marked his milestone, sitting down for a lavish meal and party at Notting Hill’s Core restaurant in London.

The girls stole the show as they twinned again in their stunning gowns, while posing alongside their family for photos. One snap showed the Beckham clan, with three of their four children in attendance – Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 13.

Fans loved Victoria and Harper’s look, flooding the comments with praise for the mother-daughter duo. One wrote: “Harper has such a beautiful smile!” Another added: “I love Harper’s little V Beckham dress,” while a third gushed: “Harper Seven. She’s gonna be just like her gorgeous Mama xx”

David could be seen kissing his daughter Harper on the head in one snap
David could be seen kissing his daughter Harper on the head in one snap(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

Another photo saw David making memories with his parents and two sisters, Joanne and Lynne. In the sweet post, shared by Victoria, she wrote: “Creating special memories with family and friends. We love you all.” Although there was no sign of eldest son Brooklyn, 26, at the star-studded bash, reports state he was invited and made his family aware he wouldn’t be attending.

Victoria and Harper are often seen donning similar outfits – and it’s no surprise the teen wants to follow in her fashion icon mum’s footsteps. The former Spice Girl and her mini-me showed off their matching ‘fits in Dubai on Monday, where they were at the launch of a new capsule collection.

Article continues below

The pair wore similar silver gowns, with Victoria pairing her metallic dress with perspex heels. Harper opted for a strappy halter neck, which she accessorised with an elegant butterfly necklace.

The family looked incredible together - although one of their four children was notably absent
The family looked incredible together – although one of their four children was notably absent(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

The close knit family have made sure David knows how loved he is, having had a whole series of events in celebration of his 50th birthday. The Inter Miami manager kicked off with a party in Miami that had the likes of Lionel Messi and Mel B on the guestlist.

The family enjoyed a trip to Bordeaux on Friday, where they spent the afternoon wine tasting at vineyard. They then jetted to Paris for dinner in one of David’s favourite spots, followed by his London celebration on Saturday night. It comes after the footy star hosted a black tie event at his Cotswolds home, which got suitable rowdy as the night drew on.

The family took David to France for wine-tasting in Bordeaux and dinner in Paris
The family took David to France for wine-tasting in Bordeaux and dinner in Paris(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

But there was one important guest missing from his London celebration on Saturday night, with Brooklyn and his wife Nicola notably absent from the family-focused event. A source said: “David is heartbroken but putting a brave face on it. Brooklyn actually informed his parents a while ago that he and his wife, Nicola, would not be attending but, of course, David and Victoria desperately hoped he would change his mind.”

With his brother shunning the family get-together – for reasons so far unconfirmed – Romeo stepped up to deliver a speech to mark his dad’s big birthday. During his lavish Notting Hill dinner and party, Romeo addressed guests to say a few words about his old man.

David was spoilt on his 50th birthday
David was spoilt on his 50th birthday(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

With cue cards at the ready, Romeo told party-goers: “Good evening everyone. I would like to start by thanking you all for being here tonight. I know without many of you in here tonight he wouldn’t be half of the man he is today. But to the man of the moment…” He is then understood to have praised his dad, having described him earlier this week as “the most amazing role model” on social media.

Article continues below

David shared a heartfelt post earlier this week, expressing his gratitude for his supportive family. Writing on Instagram, the Inter Miami CF boss penned: “As I reflect on this Birthday I’m very grateful for many things in my life, the teams I’ve played for , my team mates , managers , the fans , MY COUNTRY and being England captain, the children I have met over different charities I work with , my team in my business & the friends I have around me I feel truly blessed…”

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: ‘Margot Robbie’s facialist just taught me how to lift and sculpt my face in four minutes’

Victoria and Harper Beckham twin in matching dresses for David’s lavish 50th birthday party

The Beckhams shared a series of family-focused snaps, giving fans a glimpse into the lavish Notting Hill do thrown to mark David’s 50th birthday on Saturday night

Victoria and Harper Beckham twin in matching dresses for David’s lavish 50th birthday party(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

Victoria and Harper Beckham stunned fans in matching navy maxi dresses, as they stepped out to celebrate David’s 50th birthday party. The iconic former footballer was joined by a host of his nearest and dearest as he marked his milestone, sitting down for a lavish meal and party at Notting Hill’s Core restaurant in London.

The girls stole the show as they twinned again in their stunning gowns, while posing alongside their family for photos. One snap showed the Beckham clan, with three of their four children in attendance – Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 13.

Fans loved Victoria and Harper’s look, flooding the comments with praise for the mother-daughter duo. One wrote: “Harper has such a beautiful smile!” Another added: “I love Harper’s little V Beckham dress,” while a third gushed: “Harper Seven. She’s gonna be just like her gorgeous Mama xx”

David could be seen kissing his daughter Harper on the head in one snap
David could be seen kissing his daughter Harper on the head in one snap(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

Another photo saw David making memories with his parents and two sisters, Joanne and Lynne. In the sweet post, shared by Victoria, she wrote: “Creating special memories with family and friends. We love you all.” Although there was no sign of eldest son Brooklyn, 26, at the star-studded bash, reports state he was invited and made his family aware he wouldn’t be attending.

Victoria and Harper are often seen donning similar outfits – and it’s no surprise the teen wants to follow in her fashion icon mum’s footsteps. The former Spice Girl and her mini-me showed off their matching ‘fits in Dubai on Monday, where they were at the launch of a new capsule collection.

Article continues below

The pair wore similar silver gowns, with Victoria pairing her metallic dress with perspex heels. Harper opted for a strappy halter neck, which she accessorised with an elegant butterfly necklace.

The family looked incredible together - although one of their four children was notably absent
The family looked incredible together – although one of their four children was notably absent(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

The close knit family have made sure David knows how loved he is, having had a whole series of events in celebration of his 50th birthday. The Inter Miami manager kicked off with a party in Miami that had the likes of Lionel Messi and Mel B on the guestlist.

The family enjoyed a trip to Bordeaux on Friday, where they spent the afternoon wine tasting at vineyard. They then jetted to Paris for dinner in one of David’s favourite spots, followed by his London celebration on Saturday night. It comes after the footy star hosted a black tie event at his Cotswolds home, which got suitable rowdy as the night drew on.

The family took David to France for wine-tasting in Bordeaux and dinner in Paris
The family took David to France for wine-tasting in Bordeaux and dinner in Paris(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

But there was one important guest missing from his London celebration on Saturday night, with Brooklyn and his wife Nicola notably absent from the family-focused event. A source said: “David is heartbroken but putting a brave face on it. Brooklyn actually informed his parents a while ago that he and his wife, Nicola, would not be attending but, of course, David and Victoria desperately hoped he would change his mind.”

With his brother shunning the family get-together – for reasons so far unconfirmed – Romeo stepped up to deliver a speech to mark his dad’s big birthday. During his lavish Notting Hill dinner and party, Romeo addressed guests to say a few words about his old man.

David was spoilt on his 50th birthday
David was spoilt on his 50th birthday(Image: instagram.com/davidbeckham)

With cue cards at the ready, Romeo told party-goers: “Good evening everyone. I would like to start by thanking you all for being here tonight. I know without many of you in here tonight he wouldn’t be half of the man he is today. But to the man of the moment…” He is then understood to have praised his dad, having described him earlier this week as “the most amazing role model” on social media.

Article continues below

David shared a heartfelt post earlier this week, expressing his gratitude for his supportive family. Writing on Instagram, the Inter Miami CF boss penned: “As I reflect on this Birthday I’m very grateful for many things in my life, the teams I’ve played for , my team mates , managers , the fans , MY COUNTRY and being England captain, the children I have met over different charities I work with , my team in my business & the friends I have around me I feel truly blessed…”

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: ‘Margot Robbie’s facialist just taught me how to lift and sculpt my face in four minutes’

Inside Lily Allen’s intimate 40th birthday celebrations with loved ones

The singer, who is turning 40 this year, shared a photo of the stunning spring-themed birthday cake on her Instagram page on Sunday.

Inside Lily Allen’s intimate 40th birthday celebrations with loved ones(Image: Instagram/lilyallen)

Lily Allen celebrated her 40th birthday this weekend with her closest friends and family. The Smile singer took to her Instagram page on Sunday to share a picture of the gorgeous spring-themed birthday cake as she thanked her loved ones for helping her celebrate under ‘tricky circumstances’.

The cake had light pink “Lily 40” piped onto the middle and was covered in white icing. Before being icing sugar-dipped, the edges were decorated with berries, figs, passion fruits, and flowers. She wrote, “Thank you to all of my beauty friends and family who showed up for me and made my birthday a special one in difficult circumstances.” She tagged her pals, “Love you all.”

READ MORE: Discounted Ninja outdoor oven pizza is ‘better than takeaway’ say shoppers

Lily Allen
Lily celebrated her birthday with friends and family(Image: instagram.com/lilyallen)

At her private gathering were Gracie Allen, Miquita Oliver, and Kim Jones OBE, two fashion designers, and chef Andi Oliver, a close friend of the podcast’s co-host.

Andi wrote, “Love you sugarplum,” and Natasha Bedingfield said, “40 is the best. ” In the comments section, Lily’s friends and fans wrote, “Happy birthday.”

I really hope you had some memorable birthday moments, said one user, “Dearest Lily, I really hope you had some special moments for your birthday.” Miquita’s family is your family, I am aware of how you were raised by love. I hope the following year brings you such joy because you are so unique and beautiful. Lots and lots of love.

Continue reading the article.
Lily Allen
She thanked friends for helping her celebrate under ‘tricky circumstances’ (Image: instagram.com/roseboyt)

With tables set up in a stunning backyard decorated with flowers, decorations, and of course, food, Lily’s birthday was a happy one for the spring.

Rose Boyt, the daughter of British painter Lucien Freud, shared images from the event. In front of her cake, Lily stood in front of her photo wearing a pair of blue jeans, a shirt, and a brown sweater.

“The birthday of my god-daughter @lilyallen. What a woman,” Rose said. “Obviously at her christening when I stood there in the church with my fingers crossed behind my back and swore that I loved God and nobody smote me with their sword or whatever I had no idea that that small beloved child was going to turn into such a marvel.

Still as beloved, still as beautiful, and still as inventive, bold, and imaginative. I’m so happy to be a part of her team.

On her actual birthday, Lily posted a day-long look on Instagram that included pleated olive green pants, a baby blue body made of sheer mesh, and a lengthy gold necklace with a red heart pendant.

The actress donned red hair and wore black sunglasses to complete her seductive look. She captioned the post, which caused fans to clamber to the comments section to applaud her. “Happy Birthday, everyone.

How are you Benjamin Buttoning, a friend once said? You appear great, but you also maintain your spiritual growth, which is even more impressive.

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READ MORE: Le Creuset iconic rainbow mugs below £8 in deal cheaper than Amazon Prime Day

Zhao leads but Williams fights back in compelling Crucible final

Images courtesy of Getty
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After three-time champion Mark Williams held the lead in the World Championship final at the Crucible Theatre on day one, Zhao Xintong maintains an 11-6 overnight lead.

The 28-year-old led 7-1 in the opening session, but Williams, who is the oldest Crucible finalist, took 5 of the 9 frames on offer on Sunday, including a tense 17th frame.

No player has previously overturned a deficit of more than four frames before the second day of a World final, which gives the Welshman, 50, a glimmer of hope when play resumes on Monday.

Williams will regret what might have happened despite his brief recovery, even though Zhao is confident that he will become the first Chinese player to win the title and the only other player from outside the UK to do so since 1997.

When Williams’ opponent cleared the table after creating half-century breaks, but the frame-deciding ball went missing, Williams also lost crucially in the sixth and sixteenth frames.

Zhao was unable to maintain his dominance that he had already displayed in the opening period, but he did manage to add four more half-centuries to the breaks of 77, 100, 57, 104, and 83.

Zhao, who won the 2021 UK Championship before receiving a 20-month ban for his part in a sport-changing match-fixing scandal, is hoping to become the only qualifiers to receive the biggest prize since South Yorkshire’s move to South in 1977.

The £500, 000 top prize would also make him the first amateur to win in Sheffield, and his return to the main professional tour next season would place him 11th in the world.

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Williams’ repair job is finished after a start that was hampered by errors.

With Zhao defeating Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time champion, in the semi-finals, the match has been billed as having the potential to be a changing-of-the-guard moment for the sport.

The 22-year age difference between two Crucible finalists and Zhao, who was only three years old when Williams won his first World Championship in 2000, is the biggest ever age difference.

After defeating Judd Trump on Saturday, Williams joked that he had been playing Zhao in an exhibition when he was just a boy.

He struggled to replicate the performance he had against the world number one, who occasionally seemed to be missing a pot.

Instead, he spent Sunday evening on a salvage operation after a stumbling opening session put him in danger against a man who had won his first world championship with consummate ease.

Williams will hope not to end their semi-finals on Saturday evenings, despite Zhao having 24 hours off after beating O’Sullivan with a session remaining.

In the first session of the 2023 and 2024 finals, both Jak Jones (7-1) and Mark Selby (7-2) suffered injuries, failing to win the matchup against Luca Brecel and Kyren Wilson, who would later become champions.

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