The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has invested more than ₦30 billion this year to boost security across universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, according to Alhaji Aminu Masari, Board of Trustees Chairman.
In a statement issued in Katsina, Masari said the funding has already strengthened safety for students, lecturers and other campus residents, adding that the intervention supports the federal government’s drive to create safer, more conducive learning environments.
He explained that TETFund has now created a dedicated budget line for security, similar to its provision for electricity. “Students and academic staff need a safe environment to carry out their activities,” he said.
What the security funds are doing
Masari noted that institutions have been applying for support to install:
- Solar-powered streetlights
- Perimeter fencing
- Other security infrastructure designed to reduce threats on campuses
New development levy to boost TETFund’s capacity
Masari praised President Bola Tinubu for approving a 50 per cent Development Levy under the 2024 Nigerian Tax Bill, effective January 2025. He said the additional revenue will further expand TETFund’s ability to deliver interventions nationwide.
He also highlighted the recent national town hall meeting organised by TETFund, bringing together policymakers, lawmakers, ASUU leaders, vice chancellors and students to exchange ideas and shape future policy.
“We share ideas, receive suggestions, and work toward a more inclusive TETFund that reflects the interests of everyone within the tertiary education sector,” he said.
Background: TETFund’s largest funding year ever
As previously reported, TETFund received a record ₦1.6 trillion for nationwide interventions, the highest in its history.
Key allocations include:
- ₦25bn for campus security upgrades
- ₦460bn in direct interventions across all states
- ₦225bn for the Nigerian Education Loan Fund
- ₦70bn for solar and gas-powered electricity projects
- ₦100bn+ to expand medical sciences training
Masari said these investments are positioning Nigeria’s tertiary education system for global competitiveness in research, manpower development and infrastructure.
