Reader’s Snapshot
- N3.7bn released under the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF)
- 2,000 workers across 43 universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education benefited in the first tranche
- Academic staff: 17% of beneficiaries
- Non-academic staff: 83%
- Gender balance: 83% male – 17% female
- Government says intervention marks “policy-to-impact” transition under the Renewed Hope Agenda
The Federal Government has disbursed N3.7bn to workers across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions under the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), an initiative officials describe as a major milestone in fulfilling the welfare commitments of the Tinubu administration.
The Ministry of Education announced the development in a statement on Thursday signed by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo.
According to the ministry, the fund—which was introduced as part of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda—has now moved from policy design to “measurable impact,” with about 2,000 staff members across 43 higher institutions benefiting from the first round of disbursements.
Breakdown of Beneficiaries
The ministry said the intervention covered both academic and non-academic workers, highlighting the following distribution:
- Academic staff: 17%
- Non-academic staff: 83%
- Male beneficiaries: 83%
- Female beneficiaries: 17%
It acknowledged the gender imbalance and pledged to intensify efforts to encourage more female applications in future rounds.
“A tangible expression of appreciation” — Education Minister
Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the rollout as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to improving staff morale and productivity within the education sector.
“The TISSF is more than just a financial intervention; it is a tangible expression of the Federal Government’s appreciation for the backbone of our education system,” Alausa said.
“By swiftly disbursing these funds, we are keeping our solemn promise to enhance the welfare, productivity, and dignity of our staff, thereby strengthening our institutions for the future.”
Supporting Nigeria’s transition to a knowledge economy
The ministry noted that the support fund aligns with national efforts to shift Nigeria from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-driven one.
“TISSF is another one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in action, continuing the promise to transform Nigeria from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-based economy,” the statement added.
With further tranches expected, the government says the programme will continue to evolve as a key component of its broader education sector reform.
