April 24, 2026

In a decisive move to improve the welfare and morale of public workers, the Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a significant increase in allowances and benefits for civil servants across the country.

The announcement was made on Friday in Abuja by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, during a press briefing.

She revealed that the reforms, endorsed by the Federal Executive Council, are designed to enhance earnings and provide broader financial support for government workers.

According to her, the review covers employees under both the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), ensuring that the impact cuts across all levels of the civil service.

Walson-Jack explained that peculiar allowances have been comprehensively revised to reflect across all grade levels, translating into noticeable increases in take-home pay for both junior and senior officers.

She added that nearly all allowances captured under the Public Service Rules have now been updated.

Among the key adjustments is the upward review of duty tour allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance.

Notably, civil servants attending approved training programmes will now receive 100 percent DTA, even when such training takes place within their duty location.

“Even if you are based in Abuja and attend training within Abuja, you are entitled to full DTA,” she clarified.

Beyond immediate financial gains, the government has also introduced a new exit benefit scheme for retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

Effective January 1, 2026, retirees will receive 100 percent of their total annual emoluments as an exit package, in addition to their pension benefits.

Describing the initiative as a step toward ensuring dignity in retirement, Walson-Jack emphasized that no civil servant should leave service without adequate financial security.

Additionally, the government confirmed the full implementation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, aimed at providing financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or fatalities.

The reforms signal a renewed commitment by the government to strengthen the public service and improve the overall welfare of its workforce.