In a bid to boost the welfare and professional growth of Nigeria’s tertiary education workforce, the Federal Government has unveiled the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF). Spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Education, the initiative offers academic and non-academic staff members in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education access to loans of up to ₦10 million, not exceeding 33.3% of their gross annual salary.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, the TISSF was introduced during a stakeholder engagement session in Abuja. She described it as a milestone step in reinforcing Nigeria’s higher education system.
Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, explained that the Fund aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and aims to empower education personnel, stating, “TISSF is not just about welfare. It is about empowerment.” He emphasized the scheme’s focus on improving financial stability, quality of life, and career advancement for staff.
The Fund allows for flexible usage, including transportation, healthcare, and small-scale business ventures like poultry farming. Implementation will be handled in partnership with the Bank of Industry to ensure transparency and efficiency in disbursements.
Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, highlighted that the programme was designed after wide-ranging consultations with staff unions and institutional heads, reflecting an inclusive and participatory approach. She also noted the introduction of a robust monitoring and evaluation system to ensure the programme’s long-term success.
Key stakeholders present at the launch—including the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Hon. Sunday Asefon; TETFund Executive Secretary Arc. Sonny Echono; and the Bank of Industry Managing Director—praised the initiative as timely and transformative for staff motivation and performance.
Mrs. Boriowo concluded that the Ministry remains dedicated to working with all stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and to build a stronger, more empowered education workforce.
