The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a significant increase in peculiar allowances and welfare benefits for civil servants, aiming to improve take-home pay and morale across the public service. The announcement was made on Friday, April 24, 2026, by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, during a press briefing in Abuja.
Reforms Cover All Salary Structures
According to reports, the reforms were endorsed by the Federal Executive Council and will affect workers under both the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS). The revised peculiar allowances will apply to all grade levels, ensuring both junior and senior officers benefit.
Key Allowance Increases
Walson-Jack confirmed that virtually all allowances listed under the Public Service Rules have now been reviewed, including duty tour allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance. A key highlight is the approval of 100 percent Duty Tour Allowance for civil servants attending approved training programmes, whether travel is involved or not. She stated, "Even if you are based in Abuja and attend training within Abuja, you are entitled to full DTA."
New Exit Benefit Scheme for Retirees
Beyond salary adjustments, the government introduced a new exit benefit scheme for retiring civil servants 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. Walson-Jack described the initiative as a step toward ensuring dignity in retirement, stressing that no public servant should leave service without adequate financial support.
Employee Compensation Scheme Operationalised
The government also confirmed the operationalisation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, which provides financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or death. The reforms come at a time when labour unions have been calling for improved welfare, as rising living costs continue to affect workers.
Analysts believe the combined measures will strengthen financial stability for civil servants and improve overall productivity in the public sector. The government also released an updated list of approved loan applications in 2026 through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), ensuring only licensed digital money lenders operate within Nigeria’s financial technology space.
