In a significant boost to Nigeria’s higher education sector, President Bola Tinubu has approved the disbursement of over N700 billion to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) in 2025. The allocation will see each university receive N2.8 billion, while polytechnics and colleges of education will get N1.9 billion and N2.1 billion, respectively.
Speaking at the 2025 Strategic Planning Meeting in Abuja, TETFund Executive Secretary Sonny Echono provided a breakdown of the funds, stating that 91.08% will go directly to institutions for annual direct and special disbursements. An additional 8.72% will be allocated for special projects, while 0.20% will be set aside as a stabilization fund.
Echono emphasized that the funding will prioritize the rehabilitation and modernization of infrastructure in tertiary institutions, ensuring they are equipped to meet the needs of students and faculty. He also highlighted increased support for research, academic staff training, and book development, aligning with national education priorities. According to him, these efforts will help institutions address critical gaps in learning environments and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness in higher education.
The massive funding injection comes amid ongoing concerns over inadequate infrastructure, outdated facilities, and limited research funding in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. Universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education have long struggled with overcrowded lecture halls, poorly equipped laboratories, and a lack of modern learning resources. With this investment, institutions are expected to accelerate key projects, upgrade essential facilities, and improve the overall quality of education.
Beyond infrastructure, the funds will also support research grants, helping Nigerian academics contribute more meaningfully to global knowledge production. Echono stressed that higher education institutions must leverage this opportunity to foster innovation, enhance collaboration with industries, and drive economic development through research and technology.
As Nigeria seeks to strengthen its human capital and build a knowledge-driven economy, the latest TETFund allocation represents a crucial step toward revitalizing the tertiary education sector. The funding is expected to create new opportunities for students and faculty while also benefiting businesses involved in the education supply chain, from construction firms to technology providers.
