Civil servants hopeful as FG approves welfare boost amid economic hardship

Business

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Civil servants across Nigeria have expressed cautious optimism following the Federal Government’s approval of increased allowances and welfare benefits, aimed at easing the impact of rising living costs.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson‑Jack, announced on Friday a major review of peculiar allowances and welfare packages designed to improve take‑home pay and morale across cadres.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday, workers welcomed the development but stressed the importance of prompt implementation.

Ms. Benita Solomon, a widow with three children, said the increase would help cushion the effects of subsidy removal and inflation. “I am very excited about this increase and hope sincerely it will be implemented accordingly,” she said.

Mrs. Esther Ibrahim, a Grade Level 12 officer, noted that past announcements had not always translated into actual benefits. “What matters now is the implementation. Food prices are rising daily, and salaries no longer meet basic needs,” she warned.

Mr. Musa Abu, a junior civil servant, said the increase in Duty Tour Allowance and other benefits could ease work‑related financial burdens. Miss Ifeoma Okeke added that the new exit benefit scheme could restore confidence in public service, provided it is faithfully implemented.

Others, however, expressed scepticism. Mr. Sunday Adeyemi recalled that previous approvals did not reflect in workers’ earnings, while Mrs. Zainab Isa stressed that rising food and transport costs demand urgent action.

Economic experts also weighed in. Dr. Gideon Maigida cautioned that inflation could erode the gains unless complementary policies targeting food supply and price stability are introduced. Public finance analyst Mrs. Adenike Adeusi said the reforms could boost morale and productivity but urged transparency and fiscal sustainability.

She highlighted the approval of full Duty Tour Allowance for training and the introduction of an exit benefit scheme as significant steps toward strengthening worker welfare.

The Federal Government has assured that the measures form part of broader reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration to support workers and stabilize the economy.