FG Begins Payment of Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund to Improve Welfare and Innovation

The Federal Government has begun the disbursement of funds under the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF) — a flagship welfare programme aimed at boosting staff wellbeing, productivity, and innovation across Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

This was revealed in Abuja on Thursday by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, quoting the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa.

Alausa said the initiative, a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has now moved from planning to full implementation, with over 9,000 tertiary institution staff already benefiting in the first year. The beneficiaries represent 28% of 33,000 verified applicants drawn from 219 federal and state-owned institutions across Nigeria.

According to the minister, the first phase covers both academic and non-academic staff in a 30:70 ratio, underscoring the government’s inclusive approach to staff development.

“The President is delivering real change in our tertiary institutions — for welfare, for productivity, and for the future. Within four months of launch, payments have already begun. This is a President that delivers,” Alausa said.

He explained that the TISSF is not just a financial support scheme but an investment in Nigeria’s knowledge economy, designed to reward dedication and restore dignity among education professionals.

“This Fund goes beyond handouts. It is about rebuilding trust, recognising hard work, and revitalising the foundation of our education system,” he added.

Alausa also assured that the Ministry of Education would maintain transparency through quarterly reports, institutional engagement, and strict monitoring to ensure funds are well utilised and repaid to allow more beneficiaries access in the future.

The initiative, launched in August 2025 following stakeholder consultations, is part of the Nigerian Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) and aims to promote excellence, morale, and performance across tertiary institutions.

Through the scheme, eligible staff can access interest-free loans of up to ₦10 million to support essential needs such as housing, healthcare, education, transportation, and small-scale enterprises.

Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering tertiary staff, describing the programme as a bold step toward restoring dignity and professional growth in the education sector.