President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s newly approved Exit Benefits Scheme for retiring federal civil servants has been described as a landmark social protection measure aimed at strengthening retirement security and improving the welfare of workers after active service.

Under the scheme, eligible federal civil servants in treasury-funded Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) who have completed at least 10 years of service will receive an additional retirement benefit alongside their pensions and other entitlements. The policy took effect from January 1, 2026.

Officials say the initiative is designed to provide greater financial security for retirees, complementing the Contributory Pension Scheme and ensuring that workers who have served the nation retire with dignity.

The scheme also introduces mechanisms to improve transparency and ensure timely payment of benefits through structured pension administration processes.

Supporters of the policy describe it as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s social safety net, improving retirement outcomes, and recognising the contributions of public servants to national development.

The development forms part of broader reforms by the Federal Government aimed at enhancing worker welfare and improving pension administration across the public service.