The Federal Government has begun the disbursement of N3.7 billion to employees of tertiary institutions across the country under the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund, TISSF, a move the Ministry of Education says marks a significant advancement in delivering the Tinubu administration’s staff-welfare commitments.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the ministry announced that the scheme has now shifted from policy planning to measurable impact, with roughly 2,000 workers from 43 universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education benefitting from the initial tranche.
The ministry described the initiative as one of the core programmes of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to enhance motivation and strengthen the education workforce.
“The TISSF, a key initiative under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has transitioned from policy to measurable impact,” the ministry said.
It explained that the scheme supports the dedicated men and women who sustain the nation’s education sector, noting that both academic and non-academic personnel are covered under the distribution.
According to the breakdown, academic staff represent 17 per cent of beneficiaries, while 83 per cent are non-academic staff. The ministry also highlighted gender disparity in uptake, revealing that men constitute 83 per cent of beneficiaries compared to 17 per cent for women.
“The Ministry acknowledges this disparity and will intensify efforts to encourage application uptake among female staff to ensure gender parity in future tranches,” it stated.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, said the intervention demonstrates the government’s recognition of education workers and its commitment to their wellbeing.
“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.”
The ministry added that the programme reinforces the administration’s broader goal of transitioning Nigeria toward a knowledge-driven economy.
“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,” it said.
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