The Federal Executive Council has approved the implementation of an Exit Benefit Scheme that will grant retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equivalent to 100 percent of their total annual emoluments.
The scheme, which takes effect from January 1, 2026, marks a significant step in the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen the welfare structure of the civil service and ensure that officers who have served the nation for at least 10 years retire with dignity and financial security.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Eno Olotu, the Exit Benefit Scheme is designed as a strategic enhancement to the existing Contributory Pension Scheme.
The statement noted that the initiative will provide a substantial financial safety net for retiring civil servants, strengthening long-term income security for officers working in treasury-funded ministries, extra-ministerial departments and agencies.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, praised the approval by the council, describing it as a watershed decision that reflects the government’s recognition of the dedication and professionalism of federal civil servants.
She said the move demonstrates the commitment of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improving the welfare of public servants.
Walson-Jack also explained that the initiative aligns with the ongoing reform agenda aimed at building a more motivated, performance-driven and people-centred civil service.
She added that detailed guidelines for the implementation of the scheme would be communicated to relevant stakeholders in due course.
The approval comes 22 years after the introduction of the Contributory Pension Scheme in Nigeria and is seen as part of broader reforms aimed at improving welfare and strengthening the future of the federal civil service.
