By Atoyebi Nike
The Federal Government has commenced applications for the Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a new welfare programme designed to provide interest-free loans to staff of Nigeria’s universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
The application portal, available at tissf.education.gov.ng, officially opened today following an announcement by Sunday Dare, CON, Special Adviser, Media & Public Communication, and Spokesperson to the President.
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa described the TISSF as a strategic initiative to improve staff welfare, enhance professional growth, and foster financial independence. The scheme offers loans of up to N10 million, repayable over a maximum of five years, with a one-year moratorium before repayment begins. Eligible uses include transportation, small-scale agribusiness, medical expenses, family support, accommodation, and academic advancement.
Dr. Alausa expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the programme, calling it “another evidence of Renewed Hope in action” and a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to education. He likened the scheme to the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and emphasized its importance for both academic and non-academic staff.
The TISSF is part of the National Education Sector Renewal Implementation (NESRI) framework, led by the minister to revitalize the sector. It is being implemented in partnership with the Bank of Industry to ensure accountability and supported by a robust monitoring system to maintain transparency.
Initially introduced in July during a stakeholder engagement in Abuja, the fund was developed in consultation with staff unions, institutional leaders, and other education stakeholders. It is capped at 33.3% of a beneficiary’s gross annual salary and aims to provide practical financial relief while encouraging sustainable income-generating ventures.
