FG introduces landmark TISSF to support tertiary institutions staff

By Shamsudeen Abubakar

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has officially launched the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a first of its kind initiative that is designed to support the welfare and professional growth of staff in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

The announcement was made by Dr. Alausa this morning, August 15, 2025, via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle.

Describing the fund as “more than just another welfare package,” Alausa declared TISSF to represent a dedicated empowerment platform designed to provide both academic and non-academic staff of Nigeria’s tertiary institutions with lasting financial stability.

He emphasized that the Initiative is a foundational pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hopes Reform Agenda for Education. He highlighted the federal government’s resolve to place people at the heart of education sector transformation and economic growth.

TISSF is a joint initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), implemented in partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI). According to Dr. Alausa, the scheme offers a free 0% interest loan to support welfare, career development, and financial independence for staff across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

With the application portal now open, eligible staff of federal tertiary institutions can apply for loans of up to #10 million, capped at 33.3% of the applicants gross annual salary. “Beneficiaries will enjoy a five-year repayment period, including a one-year grace period before repayments begin.

Alausa added that the fund’s reach is extensive, concerning a variety of crucial needs. Staff can access financial aid for urgent medical situations, including surgeries, emergencies, and the purchase of medicines. Family welfare and housing are also prioritized, with support available for rent, home purchases, and renovations. For those facing transportation challenges, TISSF offers financing for vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, tricycles, or engine conversions to compress natural gas.

Furthermore, entrepreneurial staff are eligible for assistance with small-scale business ventures and agriculture. The fund will extend to activities such as poultry, fishing, crop farming, and agro-processing. Academic and professional development is also encouraged, with TISSF providing backing for further education, certification, degrees, and capacity-building courses.

The program is open to full-time staff of Federal and State Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education who have at least five years until retirement and are members of relevant staff associations like ASSU, SSANU or NASU

“To all eligible staff across our universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, begin your application today. It’s time to seize the moment!” Dr. Alausa urged, directing interested applicants to apply via the following link: tissf.education.gov.ng