Introduces 100% DTA and New Retirement Package

The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive increase in peculiar allowances and welfare benefits for civil servants, signaling a major shift aimed at improving take-home pay and boosting morale across the public service.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, announced the reforms on Friday during a press briefing in Abuja, following approval by the Federal Executive Council.

According to Walson-Jack, the review covers workers 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 all cadres.

She explained that the revised peculiar allowances have been structured to impact all grade levels, resulting in meaningful increases for both junior and senior officers.

As part of the reform, the government approved an upward review of several critical allowances, including: Duty Tour Allowance (DTA), Estacode, and Book allowance.

Walson-Jack noted that nearly all allowances captured under the Public Service Rules have now been revised.

A major highlight is the approval of 100 percent Duty Tour Allowance for civil servants attending approved training programmes—regardless of whether travel is involved.

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

In a landmark move, the Federal Government also approved a new exit benefit scheme for civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

The scheme guarantees 100 percent of a retiree’s total annual emoluments as an exit package, in addition to their pension, and will take effect from January 1, 2026.

Walson-Jack described the initiative as a critical step toward ensuring dignity in retirement, emphasizing that no public servant should leave service without adequate financial support.

The government further confirmed the operationalisation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, which is designed to provide financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or death.

The reforms come amid increasing pressure from labour unions for improved welfare, as rising living costs continue to strain workers.

Analysts believe the combined measures could significantly enhance financial stability for civil servants while improving productivity and efficiency across the public sector.