FG approves allowance increase for civil servants, expands welfare benefits

‎The Federal Government has approved a review and increase in peculiar allowances for civil servants, as well as the payment of 100 per cent Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) for officers attending approved training programmes.

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‎The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, disclosed this at a news conference on Friday in Abuja.

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‎Walson-Jack said that the review affects workers under the consolidated public service salary structure (CONPSS) and the consolidated research and allied institutions salary structure (CONRAISS) to ensure a broad-based impact across all cadres.

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‎She outlined the key reforms endorsed by the federal executive council (FEC), adding that the revised peculiar allowances have been structured to apply across all grade levels and to result in an increase in earnings for both junior and senior officers.

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‎She noted that the government also approved an upward review of key allowances, such as duty tour allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance.

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‎Walson-Jack stated that virtually all allowances listed under the Public Service Rules are being revised.

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‎She explained that the reform approved a 100 percent DTA for civil servants attending approved training programmes, regardless of whether travel is involved.

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

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‎Speaking on the benefit scheme for retiring civil servants under the contributory pension scheme (CPS), the head of civil service of the federation said a new exit scheme has been introduced, to provide 100 percent of a retiree’s total annual emoluments as an exit package, in addition to their pension, effective January 1, 2026.

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‎Walson-Jack said it is a step toward ensuring dignity in retirement, adding that no public servant should leave service without adequate financial support.

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‎She also affirmed the operationalisation of the employee compensation scheme to provide financial protection for workers who suffer a job-related accident or death.

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