The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund, a landmark welfare and empowerment initiative for academic and non-academic staff in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

In a statement issued by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on Friday, the fund was described as a direct response to the welfare and professional growth needs of the nation’s tertiary institution workforce.

The minister stated, “It gives me great pleasure to officially launch a landmark initiative that speaks directly to the heart of our commitment to the welfare and professional growth of our nation’s tertiary institution workforce — the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF).

“TISSF is not just a welfare package; it is a strategic empowerment platform designed to give our academic and non-academic staff the financial stability they need to serve our students with renewed dedication, and to live with dignity and pride.

“It is an integral part of President @officialABAT, GCFR’s Renewed Hope Reform Agenda for Education, which places our people — our greatest asset — at the centre of transforming our education sector and growing our economy.”

According to the minister, TISSF is a joint initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, implemented in partnership with the Bank of Industry.

“It is a free, 0% interest loan scheme aimed at enhancing welfare, supporting career development, and promoting financial independence for staff in Nigerian tertiary institutions,” he said.

On the benefits of the scheme, Alausa stated: “What do staff get? Up to ₦10 million (capped at 33.3% of gross annual salary) — repayable after 5 years, with a 12-month moratorium before repayment begins.”

He explained that the fund will cover five major areas: “I. Medical Support: Surgeries, emergency care, and medication. II. Family & Accommodation Support: Rent, home ownership, renovation. III. Transportation: Vehicle purchase (including EVs), bikes, tricycles, CNG conversions. IV. Small-Scale Enterprise & Agriculture: Poultry, fishing, crop farming, agro-processing. V. Academic Advancement: Professional certifications, degrees, capacity-building programmes.”

On eligibility, the minister noted: “Who’s eligible? Confirmed full-time academic and non-academic staff of any federal university, polytechnic, or college of education. One state university, polytechnic, and college of education in each state. Applicants with at least five (5) years remaining until retirement. Membership of relevant staff associations such as ASUU, SSANU, NASU, etc.”

Alausa called on eligible staff to take advantage of the scheme without delay, stating, “To all eligible staff across our universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education: begin your application today. It’s time to seize the moment!”