The Federal Government has approved a sweeping review of welfare packages, allowances, and benefits for civil servants in Nigeria, in a move aimed at improving take-home pay and boosting morale in the public service.
The announcement was made on Friday by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, during a press briefing in Abuja, where she outlined key reforms approved by the Federal Executive Council.
According to her, the review affects workers under the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), ensuring that the adjustments cut across all cadres of the civil service.
She explained that the revised peculiar allowances have been structured to reflect across all grade levels, resulting in improved earnings for both junior and senior officers.
Walson-Jack also confirmed an upward review of several allowances, including duty tour allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance, noting that virtually all allowances under the Public Service Rules have been adjusted.
A key highlight of the reforms is the approval of 100 percent Duty Tour Allowance for civil servants attending approved training programmes, whether or not travel is involved.
“Even if you are based in Abuja and attend training within Abuja, you are entitled to full DTA,” she said.
Beyond salary-related adjustments, the Federal Government also approved a new exit benefit scheme for retiring civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme. The scheme provides 100 percent of a retiree’s total annual emoluments as an exit package, in addition to their pension, effective from January 1, 2026.
Walson-Jack described the policy as part of efforts to ensure dignity in retirement, stressing that no public servant should leave service without adequate financial support.
She also announced the operationalisation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, designed to provide financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or death.
PUNCH