The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has given the green light to a new Exit Benefit Scheme, granting retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equal to 100% of their total annual emolument, effective January 1, 2026.
This groundbreaking decision aims to boost the welfare of civil servants, ensuring they retire with dignity and financial security after dedicating at least 10 years to public service.
The scheme, crafted by an Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee, enhances the existing Contributory Pension Scheme framework, providing a robust financial safety net for federal civil servants in treasury-funded ministries, departments, and agencies. Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, hailed the approval as a “watershed moment,” recognizing the dedication and professionalism of federal civil servants.
“This approval demonstrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration commitment to the welfare of civil servants,” Walson-Jack said. The initiative aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at building a motivated, performance-driven, and people-centered civil service.
The scheme’s implementation follows extensive deliberations and technical input from relevant agencies. Comprehensive guidelines will be communicated in due course.
In other news, Anambra State has reclaimed 10 oil wells previously attributed to Delta State, following verification by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
Meanwhile, a heated dispute brews between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states over 76 oil wells, with both states claiming ownership. Cross River cites new findings, while Akwa Ibom points to Supreme Court judgments affirming its ownership.
The dispute has sparked tensions, with Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno dismissing Cross River’s claims as “politically motivated.” The implications of this dispute and its potential impact on Nigeria’s oil production are unclear.
