The Federal Government has confirmed that ₦3.7 billion has been successfully disbursed to about 2,000 beneficiaries under the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), marking a major step forward in efforts to support staff across Nigeria’s higher institutions.
In a statement released over the weekend, the Federal Ministry of Education described the payment as a significant milestone in the rollout of the scheme and a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to improving the welfare and motivation of tertiary institution workers.
The TISSF, one of the key initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has now moved from policy to real, measurable impact by providing direct financial assistance to the academic and non-academic staff who keep the nation’s education system running.
According to Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, the disbursement highlights the government’s resolve to strengthen the tertiary education workforce. She explained that the first tranche of funding has reached staff across 43 universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide.
She added that the distribution ratio for this phase stands at 17% for academic staff and 83% for non-academic staff. In terms of gender, male beneficiaries account for 83%, while female beneficiaries make up 17%. The Ministry noted the imbalance and pledged to intensify efforts to boost female participation in future rounds.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the intervention is not just about money, but a clear sign of the Federal Government’s appreciation of the workforce that drives the education sector.
He said: “The TISSF is more than a financial intervention; it is a tangible expression of the Federal Government’s appreciation for the backbone of our education system. By swiftly disbursing these funds, we are keeping our promise to enhance welfare, productivity, and dignity across our institutions.”
Mrs. Boriowo added that the initiative reflects yet another achievement under the Renewed Hope Agenda, reinforcing the commitment to transition Nigeria from a resource-driven economy to a knowledge-based one.
