Nigerian Government Approves New Exit Benefit Scheme for Federal Civil Servants
The Nigerian government has approved a new Exit Benefit Scheme that grants retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equal to 100% of their total annual emolument. The approval was made at the Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the scheme is designed to enhance welfare, improve efficiency, and motivate civil servants approaching retirement. The initiative follows deliberations by an Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee, working with the National Pension Commission, Budget Office, and Office of the Accountant-General, to ensure a sustainable implementation framework.
Effective from January 1, 2026, the scheme applies to officers with a minimum of ten years of service and complements the existing Contributory Pension Scheme, offering financial security and dignity at retirement. Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, described the approval as a landmark move demonstrating the government’s recognition of civil servants’ dedication and professionalism.
The Exit Benefit Scheme strengthens long-term income security for officers in treasury-funded ministries, extra-ministerial departments, and agencies, marking a significant milestone in civil service welfare reform 22 years after the introduction of the Contributory Pension Scheme.
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