The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive increase in allowances and welfare benefits for civil servants, in a decisive move to improve take-home pay and strengthen morale across the public service.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, disclosed this on Friday during a press briefing in Abuja, where she highlighted key reforms ratified by the Federal Executive Council.

She explained that the review covers personnel under both the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), ensuring that the benefits cut across multiple cadres within the civil service.

According to her, the revised peculiar allowances have been adjusted across all grade levels, translating into a notable increase in earnings for both junior and senior officers.

The reforms also include an upward review of critical allowances such as Duty Tour Allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance. Walson-Jack noted that virtually all allowances captured under the Public Service Rules have now been updated to reflect current economic realities.

A key highlight of the initiative is the approval of 100 per cent Duty Tour Allowance for civil servants attending approved training programmes, irrespective of whether such trainings require travel.

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

Beyond remuneration, the government has introduced a new exit benefit scheme for retiring civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme. The package guarantees 100 per cent of a retiree’s total annual emoluments as an exit benefit, in addition to their pension, with effect from January 1, 2026.

Walson-Jack described the policy as a significant step towards ensuring dignity in retirement, emphasising that public servants deserve adequate financial security after years of service.

The government also confirmed the full implementation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, designed to provide financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or death.

The latest reforms come amid sustained pressure from labour unions over rising living costs. Analysts believe the measures could improve financial stability for civil servants while boosting efficiency and productivity across the public sector.