In a bold move to improve worker welfare, the Bayelsa State Government has restructured its civil service salary and allowance framework in 2025. This development follows the adoption of the new national minimum wage of ₦70,000 and reflects the state's commitment to enhancing the lives of its public servants.
Whether you're a civil servant, aspiring employee, or just interested in government wages, this article offers a detailed look into the current salary scale, allowance structure, and benefits available to Bayelsa State civil servants.
New Salary Structure Based on ₦70,000 Minimum Wage
The Bayelsa civil service salary system is structured by Grade Levels (GL), ranging from GL 01 to GL 17. The new ₦70,000 minimum wage now serves as the benchmark for all grades.
Monthly Salary Breakdown by Grade Level (2025)
|
Grade Level |
Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
GL 01 |
₦70,000 – ₦85,000 |
|
GL 02 |
₦75,000 – ₦90,000 |
|
GL 03 |
₦80,000 – ₦95,000 |
|
GL 04 |
₦85,000 – ₦100,000 |
|
GL 05 |
₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
|
GL 06 |
₦100,000 – ₦120,000 |
|
GL 07 |
₦110,000 – ₦130,000 |
|
GL 08 |
₦120,000 – ₦140,000 |
|
GL 09 |
₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
|
GL 10 |
₦140,000 – ₦160,000 |
|
GL 12 |
₦150,000 – ₦170,000 |
|
GL 13 |
₦160,000 – ₦180,000 |
|
GL 14 |
₦170,000 – ₦190,000 |
|
GL 15 |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
|
GL 16 |
₦190,000 – ₦210,000 |
|
GL 17 |
₦200,000 – ₦230,000 |
These salary figures reflect only the base pay and do not include additional allowances and bonuses.
2025 Salary Increments
To further ease the impact of rising living costs, the Bayelsa State Government implemented salary increases across all levels:
- 35% increase for Grade Level 17 officers and Permanent Secretaries.
- 25% increase for all other civil servants from GL 01 to GL 16.
The new structure became effective in May 2025, with salary arrears from November 2024 to April 2025 being paid in installments throughout the year.
Allowance Structure for Civil Servants
In addition to base salaries, Bayelsa State civil servants enjoy a wide range of allowances that enhance their total compensation packages. These allowances vary based on grade level, department, and job description.
Key Allowances Include:
- Housing Allowance: For rent or home upkeep.
- Transport Allowance: To support daily commuting costs.
- Medical Allowance: For health-related expenses.
- Leave Allowance: Paid during official leave periods.
- Hazard Allowance: For roles involving risks, such as healthcare or enforcement.
- Responsibility Allowance: For staff holding supervisory or leadership duties.
- Meal Subsidy and Utility Allowance: For staff in select ministries.
Combined, these allowances can increase a civil servant’s total monthly earnings by up to 40–50% of their base salary.
Pension and Retirement Benefits
Bayelsa State operates a contributory pension scheme in which both the government and the employee contribute monthly. Upon retirement, civil servants are entitled to pensions and benefits that provide financial stability after years of service.
The scheme is structured to ensure that workers who have served diligently receive fair compensation in their post-retirement years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the new minimum wage in Bayelsa State?
The new minimum wage is ₦70,000 monthly, and it applies across all entry-level positions in the civil service.
2. Who qualifies for the 35% salary increment?
The 35% increase applies to civil servants on Grade Level 17 and Permanent Secretaries.
3. When did the new salary structure begin?
It was implemented in May 2025, with arrears dating back to November 2024.
4. Are civil servants entitled to housing and transport allowances?
Yes, housing and transport allowances are standard for most civil servants and vary by job level.
5. How is the pension scheme funded?
Bayelsa's civil servants participate in a contributory pension scheme funded by both the employee and the state government.
Conclusion
The 2025 salary and allowance structure in Bayelsa State reflects a forward-thinking government strategy to improve the livelihoods of its workforce. With a new ₦70,000 minimum wage, increased salaries, and a wide array of allowances, civil service jobs in the state have become more rewarding than ever.
For both current civil servants and potential recruits, this structure provides transparency, motivation, and long-term financial security. As the government continues to reform public service, Bayelsa remains a model for state-level salary equity in Nigeria.
