The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) says it has invested over N30 billion to strengthen security in tertiary institutions across the country between January and November.
The Chairman, Board of Trustees of TETFund, Aminu Masari, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Katsina.
Masari, a former governor of Katsina State, said the intervention had significantly improved safety for students, lecturers and other residents on campuses nationwide.
He said the funding aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment in higher institutions.
“Just as we created a budget line for electricity, we also deemed it fit to establish a dedicated line for security. Students and academic staff need a safe environment to carry out their activities,” he said.
Masari said several institutions had applied for support to install solar-powered streetlights, perimeter fencing and other security-enhancing facilities.
He commended President Tinubu for his continued support to TETFund, noting the president’s approval of a 50 per cent Development Levy under the 2024 Nigerian Tax Bill.
“The levy is expected to take effect in January and will further boost the Fund’s capacity to deliver interventions,” he added.
Masari said a recent town hall meeting organised by TETFund was aimed at updating stakeholders on ongoing interventions and gathering feedback to improve operations.
He said the platform brought together policymakers in the tertiary education sector, including lawmakers, ASUU, vice chancellors and students.
“We share ideas, receive suggestions and work toward a more inclusive TETFund that makes policies reflecting the various interests within the tertiary education sub-sector,” he said.
Masari added that the forum also provided space to address pressing issues in the sector, with the goal of positioning Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to compete globally in research, manpower development and infrastructure.
