FG Introduces N10m Support Scheme for Tertiary Institution Staff

The Federal Government has unveiled a financial assistance initiative aimed at supporting academic and non-academic staff of tertiary institutions across the country.

Tagged the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF), the scheme is designed to improve the welfare and professional development of workers in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Under this scheme, each eligible staff member can access up to ₦10 million, not exceeding 33.3% of their gross annual salary.

The fund can be used for purposes such as transportation, medical expenses, and small business ventures, including agriculture-based enterprises like poultry farming.

The initiative was formally introduced during a stakeholder engagement session held in Abuja, according to a statement issued by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the fund goes beyond just staff welfare—it aims to empower and uplift personnel across Nigeria’s higher institutions.

“TISSF is not merely a welfare scheme; it’s an empowerment programme to promote financial stability, enhance living standards, and encourage career growth,” Alausa stated.

The scheme will be managed in collaboration with the Bank of Industry, which will oversee the loan disbursement to ensure transparency and effectiveness.

Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, added that the initiative was the result of comprehensive consultations with staff unions, institutional leaders, and other key players in the education sector.

A solid monitoring and evaluation framework has also been put in place to ensure the programme’s sustainability and effectiveness.

The launch event saw attendance from major education stakeholders, including representatives of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), the Bank of Industry, vice-chancellors, rectors, and provosts. They all lauded the initiative as timely and instrumental in boosting staff morale and improving institutional performance.