The Federal Government has introduced a new welfare-focused loan scheme aimed at improving the well-being and professional growth of staff in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
Known as the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF), the initiative offers academic and non-academic personnel in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education access to loans of up to ₦10 million, capped at 33.3% of their gross annual salary.
According to a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education’s Director of Press, Folasade Boriowo, on Sunday, the scheme covers areas such as transportation, medical expenses, and micro-enterprise ventures like poultry farming.
Speaking at the official unveiling in Abuja, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the fund is part of a broader strategy to reposition tertiary education in Nigeria.
“TISSF is not just about welfare. It is about empowerment,” Alausa stated. “We are ensuring our education workforce is supported to live well, grow professionally, and contribute meaningfully to institutional excellence.”
The fund will be managed in collaboration with the Bank of Industry, which will oversee disbursement to ensure transparency and effective delivery.
Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, added that the programme was developed in consultation with staff unions and educational stakeholders to ensure inclusivity and long-term sustainability. A robust monitoring and evaluation framework has also been put in place.
Key stakeholders, including vice-chancellors, rectors, and provosts, present at the launch, welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and essential for boosting morale and enhancing performance across the country’s tertiary education system.
