The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has criticised the Federal Government’s proposed Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a zero-interest loan initiative, insisting that clearing outstanding arrears must take precedence before introducing new financial schemes.
In a statement e-signed by its National President, Comrade Philip Ogunsipe, on Saturday, the union acknowledged the government’s efforts to ease financial challenges but maintained that addressing unpaid entitlements was “both reasonable and just.”
“The prevailing economic situation in our nation continues to place significant strain on citizens, with workers in our tertiary institutions feeling the impact most acutely. In light of this, the recent proposal of the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a zero-interest loan initiative, has drawn considerable attention.
“The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) appreciates any effort by the government to address the financial challenges facing staff. However, we believe it is both reasonable and just to first resolve longstanding arrears before introducing new financial schemes,” the statement read in part.
The union listed the pending payments to include: CONTEDISS 15 Migration arrears since 2013, promotion arrears for 2023, 2024, and 2025, one-year salary arrears from the 25% and 35% pay rise, minimum wage consequential adjustment arrears, and outstanding wage awards.
It argued that these arrears outweigh the benefits of the proposed TISSF.
“These outstanding obligations far exceed the benefit of the proposed TISSF. More importantly, they are not optional benefits but rightful payments due for services already rendered. Settling these arrears will not only alleviate the immediate financial hardship faced by our members, but also rebuild confidence, reinforce morale, and restore dignity to the Polytechnic workforce,” the union said.
While clarifying that it was not opposed to the concept of the TISSF, SSANIP stressed that introducing the loan scheme without first settling arrears could further strain staff already burdened with debts.
“Implementing a loan scheme before addressing these arrears risks compounding financial strain, as staff already burdened with personal debts may be hesitant to take on new obligations, even at zero interest,” it added.
The union therefore urged both the Federal and State Governments to redirect the funds intended for the TISSF towards clearing outstanding arrears.
“This would send a clear and positive message that the government recognises the value of its workforce and is committed to honouring its obligations before introducing additional interventions.
“Our call is simple: let justice come before charity. When our arrears are cleared, we will be in a stronger position to embrace any further initiatives aimed at enhancing staff welfare. The Polytechnic sector remains a critical pillar of national development, and it is only fair that those who sustain it are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve,” the statement concluded.
