The civil service in Nigeria plays a crucial role in the day-to-day planning and implementation of government policies across various ministries, agencies, and departments. Employees within this sector, known as civil servants, are entitled to various allowances that supplement their salaries for the services they provide to the government.
Allowances can be defined as monetary benefits provided to employees for specific purposes, such as travel, medical expenses, or other necessary expenditures. These allowances are periodically reviewed by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission. This article explores the different types of allowances available to public servants in Nigeria.
Types of Allowances in Civil Service in Nigeria
Here are the various allowances provided by the Nigerian civil service:
1. Duty Tour Allowance (DTA)
The Duty Tour Allowance is granted to civil servants who embark on official tours approved by legitimate authorities. This allowance is intended to cover travel-related expenses, including accommodation and meals. Eligible employees include those on official duty away from their base and those undergoing off-site training. The DTA rates for federal public officers are as follows:
- ₦37,500 per night for Grade Levels 16-17
- ₦25,000 per night for Grade Levels 14-15
- ₦20,000 per night for Grade Levels 12-13
- ₦17,500 per night for Grade Levels 07-10
- ₦15,000 per night for Grade Levels 05-06
- ₦10,000 per night for Grade Levels 01-04
Additionally, a transportation allowance is provided when air transport is unavailable, with rates as follows:
- ₦150/Kilometre for Grade Levels 15-17
- ₦75/Kilometre for Grade Levels 07-14
- ₦55/Kilometre for Grade Levels 01-06
- ₦35/Kilometre for Ministers/Permanent Secretaries
Public servants are also entitled to 30% of their DTA for domestic tours along with taxi costs.
2. Kilometer Allowances/Transport Allowances
Kilometer or transport allowances are granted under three circumstances: when newly appointed officers report to duty, when an officer is leaving their position, and when public officials use their vehicles for official duties. The payment rates for kilometer allowances are:
- ₦150/Kilometre for Ministers/Permanent Secretaries
- ₦75/Kilometre for Grade Levels 15-17
- ₦55/Kilometre for Grade Levels 07-14
- ₦35/Kilometre for Grade Levels 01-06
An additional 30% of the kilometer allowance is applicable for domestic travel.
3. Hotel Accommodation Allowance
This allowance is provided to public servants who are relocated to a station outside their home city. It covers accommodation for the first 28 days and transportation costs for the officer and their family. The hotel accommodation allowance rates are:
- ₦20,000 per night for Ministers/Permanent Secretaries
- ₦13,000 per night for Grade Levels 15-17
- ₦9,000 per night for Grade Levels 07-14
- ₦3,000 per night for Grade Levels 01-06
4. Estacode Allowance
The Estacode allowance is a travel reimbursement for international trips and requires approval from a permanent secretary or head of an extra-ministerial office. The rates are as follows:
- Honourable Minister: $900
- Permanent Secretary: $600
- Grade Levels 15-17: $425
- Grade Levels 07-14: $381
- Grade Levels 01-06: $206
5. Estacode Supplementation Allowance
When a public official’s lodging is covered by a host government or institution during an international trip, they are eligible for the Estacode Supplementation Allowance. This includes 10% of their relevant Estacode Allowance for the duration of their stay.
6. Warm Clothing Allowance
Public officials traveling to moderate climates receive a warm clothing allowance valued at $720.
7. Disengagement Allowances
Disengagement allowances are provided to public servants before they leave their positions, calculated at 5% of their basic annual salary plus ₦50,000 for packing expenses.
Additional Allowances
Other allowances available to civil servants in Nigeria include:
- Overtime Allowance
- Local Course Allowance
- Books Allowance
- Responsibility Allowance
- Uniform Allowance
- Call Duty Allowance
- Acting Allowance
- Teaching Allowance
Conclusion
The allowances provided to employees in the Nigerian civil service enhance their overall job satisfaction and financial well-being. Understanding these benefits is essential for public servants to maximize their entitlements. This overview offers insights into the various allowances available, highlighting the support structures in place for those serving in Nigeria’s civil service.
