FEC Approves 100% Gratuity for Retiring Federal Workers

On Thursday, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the implementation of a transformative exit benefit scheme that will grant retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equal to 100% of their total annual emoluments, effective January 1, 2026. This scheme marks a significant milestone in the federal government's commitment to strengthening the welfare architecture of the civil service, ensuring that officers who have devoted a minimum of 10 years of service can retire with dignity and financial security.

The approval followed extensive deliberations and technical input from an inter-ministerial technical committee, which included the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and the National Pension Commission. Didi Walson Jack, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, commended the FEC for this watershed decision, highlighting that it acknowledges the dedication and sacrifices of federal civil servants.

The scheme is designed to enhance the existing contributory pension scheme framework and provide a substantial financial safety net for retirees, thereby strengthening their long-term income security.