Federal Govt Unveils N10bn Housing Loan, Full Exit Benefits For Civil Servants

The federal government has announced a package of welfare reforms for civil servants, including increased allowances and a N10 billion housing loan scheme to reflect current economic realities in the country.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja yesterday, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, said the measures underscored the administration’s commitment to placing workers’ welfare at the centre of governance.

“This is your moment,” Mrs Walson-Jack told public servants, affirming that their dedication and service to the nation are now being matched with meaningful support.

She credited the reforms to the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, noting that the administration had created an enabling environment for meaningful improvements in the lives of public servants.

Walson-Jack outlined key interventions approved by the federal government, describing them as both immediate relief and long-term support mechanisms.

“This marks a decisive shift from policy promises to tangible benefits,” she added.

She noted that at the core of the package is a landmark Exit Benefit Scheme, which guarantees 100 per cent of a retiring civil servant’s total annual emoluments.

The initiative, effective from January 1, 2026, is designed to ensure that no public servant leaves service without financial dignity.

In addition, she said the Employee Compensation Scheme has been fully operationalised to provide support for workers who suffer job-related injuries, disabilities, or loss of life.

The scheme, she explained, complements existing insurance structures and expands protection for civil servants and their families.

Training and capacity development also received a boost, with the approval of full Duty Tour Allowance for officers attending programmes at designated government training institutions, “regardless of whether travel is required.”

According to her, the government also announced a review and upward adjustment of the Peculiar Allowance across all grade levels, alongside increases in Duty Tour Allowance, estacode, and book allowances “to reflect current economic realities.”

A major highlight of the announcement is the N10 billion housing loan scheme aimed at improving home ownership among civil servants.