KEY POINTS
- FG increases allowances for duty tour and transport of public service officers.
- 6 key proposals including the allowance review were approved by the 46th NCE meeting.
- New allowances will help to improve the welfare of public service and service delivery.
The Federal Government has recently acceded to the request for an upward adjustment of allowances for public service officers on duty tour allowance, transport allowances, uniform allowances and overtime payments.
The decision was reached during the 46th meeting of the National Council on Establishment NCE presided over by the Head Civil Service of the Federation Mrs Didi Walson Jack.
The NCE, the highest policy making body in public service held a meeting with the directors of service from the 36 states of Nigeria and the federal capital territory. The council’s decision was made within the framework of the further enhancement of the well-being of civil servants.
According to the report from the session, “An upward review of rates of allowances paid to officers in the Public Service and a comprehensive review of the Schemes of Service to reflect the Council’s approvals.”
A comprehensive review of civil service allowances
The meeting kicked off with a two day technical session led by the Permanent Secretary of the Service Policies and Strategies Office. The officials included permanent secretaries and directors from all the 36 states and also the FCT.
In the NCE meeting, 32 proposals were discussed. Of these, six memoranda were approved, mainly the upward review of allowances for public service officers. Other key decisions included:
Eight proposals were stepped.
Six proposals were rejected.
The Standing Committee received seven proposals from the floor.
Furthermore, three had been recommended for re-submission.
This latest review is about ensuring civil servants get the financial benefits they deserve for their work in the modern world. Seen as a way of responding to the increasing cost of living and in order to motivate a public workforce.
In addition, it is expected that the increased allowances will enhance working conditions for all levels of the officers in the public service. The Federal Government will seek to improve service delivery and the well being of its workforce through addressing allowances for duty tours, transport and overtime, as well as uniforms.
