FG approves 40% Peculiar Allowance for Federal Civil Servants after labour pressure

The Federal Government has approved the long-awaited 40 per cent peculiar allowance for federal civil servants following sustained pressure from organised labour and the threat of industrial action.

The approval, it was gathered, was reached during a marathon meeting on Tuesday presided over by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Esther Walson-Jack, at her office in Abuja.

At the meeting, the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) issued a circular for the implementation of the allowance, ending nearly two years of agitation linked to adjustments arising from the new N70,000 minimum wage structure.

Walson-Jack emphasised the need for stronger communication between government management teams and labour unions, noting that sustained dialogue was key to preventing avoidable industrial disputes.

She also acknowledged the constitutional right of labour unions to make demands, while urging government agencies to prioritise constructive engagement in resolving welfare-related issues.

The meeting brought together representatives of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), led by its National Chairman, Benjamin Uyanto, alongside officials of the NSIWC led by its Chairman, Mr Eyo Nta.

Both parties reportedly presented their positions before the Head of Service intervened to facilitate a consensus.

Following the deliberations, an implementation circular for the 40 per cent peculiar allowance was presented to the labour leadership.

Reacting to the development, the National Secretary of the JNPSNC (Trade Union side), Olowoyo Gbenga, described the approval as a major relief for workers, noting that it would ease the financial burden on civil servants amid prevailing economic challenges.

He said the implementation will take effect from May 1, 2026, after workers had waited since July 2024 for the adjustment.

Olowoyo also urged state governments to adopt the circular for workers at sub-national levels, warning that many households remain under severe economic pressure.

He disclosed that the union had earlier planned a nationwide industrial action for May 21 over the delay, but said the intervention of the Head of Service helped avert a crisis.

“With this development, workers may likely sheath their swords and allow industrial peace to reign in the workplace,” he added.