In 2025, the Abia State Government introduced a restructured civil service salary framework to align with the new national minimum wage of ₦70,000. This reform was designed to promote equity, address longstanding pay disparities, and improve the welfare of public servants across all ministries and departments in the state.
Revised Salary Structure
The new payment system ensures that the minimum take-home salary for workers on Grade Level (GL) 1, Step 1 starts at ₦70,000 per month. Salaries increase progressively with each grade level and step, rewarding experience, rank, and responsibilities.
Estimated Monthly Salary by Grade Level:
|
Grade Level |
Step |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
GL 01 |
1 |
70,000 |
|
GL 01 |
15 |
80,463 |
|
GL 10 |
1 |
99,707 |
|
GL 10 |
15 |
101,722 |
|
GL 17 |
1 |
254,667 |
|
GL 17 |
9 |
259,805 |
Note: These figures reflect gross earnings and may be subject to deductions such as tax and pension contributions.
Consequential Adjustments
To bridge previous gaps and ensure fairness, Abia State implemented a set of consequential adjustments across various grade levels. These are incremental additions applied to salaries beyond the minimum wage:
- GL 1–3: 5% increase
- GL 4–6: 4% increase
- GL 7–10: 3% increase
- GL 12–14: 2% increase
- GL 15–17: 1% increase
This approach ensures that lower and middle-level workers benefit more significantly from the new wage structure.
Specialized Salary Structure for Health Workers
A dedicated salary scale has been introduced for health professionals in Abia State. This adjustment ensures that doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare staff earn salaries comparable to their counterparts in federal institutions. The specialized health salary scale also serves as a motivation to attract and retain qualified professionals in the state’s healthcare system.
Allowances and Benefits
In addition to the basic salary, Abia State civil servants are entitled to a variety of statutory allowances and benefits that enhance their total compensation package:
- Housing Allowance: Provided to help cover accommodation costs.
- Transport Allowance: Monthly support for daily commuting expenses.
- Leave Allowance: Paid annually, often 10% of the basic salary.
- Medical Allowance: Health-related financial support.
- Utility Allowance: Covers part of utility bills like electricity and water.
- Pension Contributions: Workers are enrolled in a contributory pension scheme.
- Gratuity: A lump sum payment given at retirement based on salary and years of service.
- Health Insurance: Access to healthcare services for workers and their dependents.
Career Progression and Job Security
The reformed salary structure also supports regular promotions and structured career progression for civil servants. Employees are evaluated periodically, and promotions come with salary upgrades and greater responsibilities. Job security remains one of the most valued benefits in the civil service, with long-term employment and retirement packages assured.
Conclusion
The 2025 civil service salary reform in Abia State is a strong step toward rewarding productivity, professionalism, and dedication in public service. By implementing a fair and transparent wage system with supportive allowances and benefits, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the living standards of its workforce.
