The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive welfare package for civil servants, headlined by the introduction of a new Exit Benefit Scheme (EBS) and a 100% Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) for training.

These reforms, announced by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, on April 24, 2026, aim to improve take-home pay and boost workforce morale.

According to Walson-Jack, the review affects workers under both the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), ensuring a broad-based impact across all cadres.

She said the revised peculiar allowances have been structured to reflect across all grade levels, resulting in a meaningful increase in earnings for both junior and senior officers.

In addition, the government approved an upward review of several key allowances, including duty tour allowance (DTA), estacode, and book allowance. Walson-Jack noted that virtually all allowances listed under the Public Service Rules have now been revised.

A major highlight of the reform is the approval of 100 percent Duty Tour Allowance for civil servants attending approved training programmes, regardless of whether travel is involved.

“Even if you are based in Abuja and attend training within Abuja, you are entitled to full DTA,” she said.

Beyond salary-related adjustments, the government also introduced a new exit benefit scheme for retiring civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme. The scheme provides 100 percent of a retiree’s total annual emoluments as an exit package, in addition to their pension, effective January 1, 2026.

Walson-Jack described the move as a step toward ensuring dignity in retirement, stressing that no public servant should leave service without adequate financial support.

The government also confirmed the operationalisation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, designed to provide financial protection for workers who suffer job-related injuries or death.

The reforms come amid growing calls from labour unions for improved welfare, as rising living costs continue to put pressure on workers. Analysts say the combined measures could significantly enhance financial stability for civil servants and improve overall productivity in the public sector.

Providus Bank Plc has commissioned a new branch in Ado-Ekiti, marking another step in its steady expansion across key growth markets in Nigeria.

Having met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) recapitalisation requirement since January 2025, Providus Bank is now focused on expanding its footprint to support local enterprise, deepen financial inclusion, and bring banking services closer to individuals and businesses.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Executive Director/Chief Financial Officer, Deoye Ojuroye, noted that the expansion is part of a broader plan to strengthen the Bank’s presence nationwide over the next 12 months.

“Our approach is deliberate—we are growing in the right places, supporting real economic activity, and building a bank that is both resilient and responsive to the needs of our customers.”

He added that Providus Bank remains on a strong footing, with a disciplined approach to capital and risk management underpinning its growth.

“We are well capitalised within our regulatory category, and that gives us the confidence to continue expanding responsibly while supporting businesses and communities.”

The Bank plans to open additional branches in strategic locations over the coming year, reinforcing its commitment to scale, accessibility, and long-term value creation.

Providus Bank continues to position itself as a reliable partner to businesses and individuals, combining financial strength with a clear focus on sustainable growth.

In a bold move to strengthen environmental protection across Nigeria, Sterling Bank, in collaboration with Sterling One Foundation, Lagos Waste Management Authority, Sunbeth, community volunteers, and partner organizations, is set to launch The Great Nigeria Cleanup, a nationwide environmental movement taking place on April 25, 2026.

Spanning all six geopolitical zones, and aligned with the United Nations Decade of Action, this initiative will mobilize citizens across Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, Osun, Cross River, Delta, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, Imo, Sokoto, Kano, Benue, Plateau, Kogi, and Katsina, reinforcing the urgency of sustained, community-led efforts to combat plastic and waste pollution and restore the health of Nigeria’s environment.

Speaking on the initiative, Temitayo Adegoke, Chief Operating Officer of Sterling Bank stated: “At Sterling, we believe that real impact happens when institutions and individuals come together with a shared purpose. The Great Nigeria Cleanup is our collective opportunity to not only clean our surroundings but to redefine how we care for our environment. This is about building a culture of responsibility and pride that will outlive this moment.”

Also commenting, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation added: “The

future we want for Nigeria depends on the actions we take today. The Great Nigeria Cleanup is about more than sanitation, it is about dignity, wellbeing, and shared responsibility.

We are proud to be part of a movement that empowers people across the country to take ownership of their environment.”

As Nigeria continues to face growing environmental challenges, including waste management and urban pollution, The Great Nigeria Cleanup stands as a timely and urgent response, one that brings together government, private sector, and citizens to drive meaningful, lasting change.

On April 25, Nigerians everywhere are encouraged to step out, show up, and be part of this historic movement. Because a cleaner Nigeria is not just a vision, it is a responsibility we all share.