Nigerian Government Increases Civil Servant Allowances and Benefits

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated a major overhaul of civil servant compensation, authorizing significant increases in peculiar allowances and welfare packages. This policy aims to bolster worker morale and improve overall take-home earnings.

Didi Walson-Jack, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, announced the changes in Abuja on Friday. The adjustments cover employees under both the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure, impacting all grade levels.

Key adjustments include updates to the duty tour allowance, estacode, and book allowance. Notably, civil servants participating in official training programs will now receive a full 100 percent duty tour allowance, even if the training occurs within their current station.

New Retirement and Safety Initiatives

• Retiring public servants will receive an exit package equal to their full annual emoluments, starting January 1, 2026.
• The Employee Compensation Scheme has been activated to provide financial security for work-related accidents or fatalities.

Walson-Jack emphasized that these reforms are intended to provide financial security during retirement. These changes come as labour unions continue to advocate for better conditions to offset the impact of rising living expenses across the country.