FG Rolls Out Tertiary Staff Support Fund for 33,000 Workers

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the disbursement phase of the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing staff welfare, boosting institutional productivity, and fostering innovation across the country’s higher education sector.

Announced in Abuja by Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the programme is a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Quoting the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, Boriowo confirmed that the initiative has moved from planning to full-scale implementation.

In its first year, over 9,000 staff members from federal and state tertiary institutions have received payments, representing 28% of the 33,000 verified applicants drawn from 219 institutions nationwide. The initial phase of the fund’s rollout includes both academic and non-academic staff, with a 30:70 distribution ratio, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusivity.

“This administration is delivering tangible support to our tertiary institutions—not just for welfare, but for long-term productivity and national development,” Dr. Alausa stated. “Within four months, we’ve moved from concept to execution. The President’s dedication to education is evident, and we are deeply grateful for his unwavering support.”

Dr. Alausa emphasized that the fund is more than financial relief—it’s a strategic investment in Nigeria’s knowledge economy. “This initiative is about restoring dignity, recognizing commitment, and rebuilding the intellectual foundation of our nation,” he said.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the Ministry of Education has pledged to publish quarterly financial reports, engage institutions directly, and implement robust monitoring systems. These measures aim to guarantee proper fund utilization and enable future expansion to reach more beneficiaries.

Launched in August 2025 following a high-level stakeholder engagement in July, the TISSF is a cornerstone of the Nigerian Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI). Under the scheme, eligible staff can access up to ₦10 million in zero-interest loans to address critical needs such as housing, healthcare, education, transportation, and small-scale business development.