The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive increase in allowances and welfare benefits for civil servants, a move aimed at improving their earnings and boosting morale across the public sector.
The announcement was made by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, during a press briefing in Abuja. She disclosed that the reforms were endorsed by the Federal Executive Council and are designed to impact workers across various cadres.
According to her, the review covers employees under the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), ensuring that both junior and senior officers benefit from the adjustments.
Walson-Jack explained that the revised peculiar allowances have been structured to reflect across all grade levels, resulting in noticeable increases in take-home pay. She added that several key allowances including duty tour allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance have been reviewed upward.
A notable feature of the reform is the approval of a 100 percent Duty Tour Allowance for civil servants attending officially approved training programmes. This applies even when such training takes place within the same city.
Even if a worker based in Abuja attends training within Abuja, they are entitled to full DTA, she clarified.
Beyond salary enhancements, the government has also introduced a new exit benefit scheme for retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme. The initiative provides 100 percent of a retiree’s total annual emoluments as an exit package, in addition to their pension benefits. The scheme took effect from January 1, 2026.
Describing the reform as a step toward ensuring dignity in retirement, Walson-Jack stressed that no civil servant should leave service without adequate financial support.
In addition, the government confirmed the implementation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, which is designed to provide financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or death.
The reforms come at a time when labour unions have intensified calls for improved welfare, citing the rising cost of living. Analysts believe the combined measures could significantly enhance financial stability for civil servants and improve productivity within the public service.
