UNIBEN Bars 5,000 Students from Exams Over Unpaid Fees

Over 5,000 UNIBEN students risk exam ban over unpaid fees. Learn about the university’s strict policy, NELFUND loan options, and its impact on students.

Exam Ban Sparks Tension at UNIBEN

The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has issued a strict warning that over 5,000 students may be barred from sitting for second-semester examinations due to unpaid school fees. The examinations, scheduled to begin on Monday, September 29, 2025, may see thousands of students excluded under the institution’s “no payment, no examination” policy.

This move has ignited serious debate within the academic community, as many affected students claim financial hardship, while the university insists it provided ample opportunities for compliance, including access to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

UNIBEN’s “No Fees, No Exam” Policy

In a memo signed by the Registrar, Mr. Ademola Bobola, the management confirmed that students who ignored multiple reminders to pay their fees or subscribe to the loan scheme will not be allowed into examination halls.

“The university management is in receipt of the list of students who have failed to pay their school charges despite repeated reminders. These students have also failed to subscribe to the loans being provided by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND),” the statement read.

The memo further revealed that a task force headed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) will oversee strict enforcement of the directive across all faculties and departments.

How Many Students Are Affected?

According to the registrar, a total of 5,000 students have defaulted on their fee obligations this semester. To ensure transparency:

The Senate directed provosts, deans, and heads of departments to publish the names of defaulters by 8 a.m. on Monday.
This measure allows affected students to confirm their status and make last-minute payments before exams begin.

NELFUND Loans: A Missed Opportunity

The registrar expressed disappointment that many students did not take advantage of the NELFUND facility, designed to reduce the burden of tuition and upkeep fees.

For context, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund provides accessible student loans to help undergraduates finance their education. As reported by The Punch and other outlets, over 449,000 students nationwide have already benefitted from the scheme.

Students can apply for loans via the official NELFUND portal, making it easier to settle charges without financial strain.

Why the Strict Enforcement?

The memo emphasized that the enforcement is not intended as punishment but rather as a measure to maintain academic discipline and institutional standards.

Key reasons behind UNIBEN’s stance include:

Encouraging responsible financial habits among students.
Ensuring the university can fund academic operations without disruptions.
Aligning with practices at other institutions, such as the Rivers State University, which also enforces a “no school fees, no exam” policy (source).

Broader Context: Not Just a UNIBEN Issue

This is not the first time Nigerian universities have implemented similar strict measures. For example:

Rivers State University enforced the policy earlier in April 2025, warning students against diverting school fees into gambling or other non-academic activities.
Other state and federal institutions are reportedly considering similar steps to tackle growing cases of fee default among students.

What Can UNIBEN Students Do Now?

Students facing this challenge still have limited options before exams commence:

Pay School Fees Immediately – Ensure all outstanding charges are cleared before the deadline.
Apply for a NELFUND Loan – Visit the official portal to register and apply.
Confirm Status Early – Check the departmental list of defaulters published on Monday morning.
Seek Clarification – Students unsure about their payment records should contact the bursary or student affairs office immediately.

If you are a UNIBEN student, don’t risk missing your examinations. Take immediate action by paying your fees or applying for a NELFUND loan before the deadline. Visit the NELFUND official website today to secure your access to the exams.

The University of Benin’s enforcement of its “no fees, no exam” policy serves as a wake-up call for students to prioritize their financial obligations. While the decision may appear tough, it reflects a broader trend in Nigerian universities to maintain standards and accountability.

With opportunities like NELFUND loans available, students have practical solutions at their fingertips. What matters now is taking swift action to avoid being among the 5,000 barred from examinations.

Stay updated with the latest education news in Nigeria by following credible outlets such as The Punch and the official UNIBEN website for updates.

Education is an investment. Don’t let unpaid fees block your future. Take action today and secure your spot in the exams.