The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has urged the Federal Government to settle outstanding obligations before implementing the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), a N10 million zero-interest loan initiative for staff of tertiary institutions.

The Association listed the five arrears owed its members to include CONTEDISS 15 Migration arrears since 2013; promotion arrears for 2023, 2024, and 2025; one-year salary arrears from the 25 per cent and 35 per cent pay rise; Minimum Wage consequential adjustment arrears; as well as outstanding wage awards.

A statement by SSANIP National President, Comrade Philip Ogunsipe, said these outstanding obligations far exceed the benefit of the proposed TISSF—a N10 million interest-free loan for staff of Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Ogunsipe noted that while the new financial scheme is laudable, the Federal and State Governments should consider redirecting the funds intended for the TISSF towards clearing the arrears owed to polytechnic staff across the country.

He stressed that the unpaid arrears have placed a huge economic burden on members, eroding their purchasing power and morale.

According to him, settling these obligations would not only restore trust between the government and polytechnic staff but also ensure that any new initiative, such as the TISSF, is implemented on a solid foundation.

His words: “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.

“While SSANIP is not opposed to the concept of the TISSF, we respectfully submit that its introduction should follow the settlement of these outstanding payments. 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.

“We therefore urge the Federal and State Governments to consider redirecting the funds intended for the TISSF towards clearing the arrears owed to polytechnic staff across the country. This would send a clear and positive message that government recognizes 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.”