In a significant move to enhance the welfare of its workforce, the Cross River State Government approved a new minimum wage of ₦70,000 for civil servants, effective December 1, 2024. This adjustment underscores the state's commitment to improving the living standards of its employees and ensuring fair compensation across all levels.
Salary Structure by Grade Level
The Cross River State civil service operates on a structured grade level system, ranging from Grade Level (GL) 01 to GL 17. Each grade level corresponds to specific roles, responsibilities, and salary scales. With the new minimum wage as the baseline, the salary structure has been adjusted accordingly.
Monthly Salary Breakdown by Grade Level:
| Grade Level | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| GL 01 | 70,000 |
| GL 02 | 71,000 |
| GL 03 | 73,000 |
| GL 04 | 75,000 |
| GL 05 | 85,000 |
| GL 06 | 102,000 |
| GL 07 | 134,000 |
| GL 08 | 170,000 |
| GL 09 | 203,000 |
| GL 10 | 236,000 |
| GL 11 | 271,000 |
| GL 12 | 301,000 |
| GL 13 | 330,000 |
| GL 14 | 369,000 |
| GL 15 | 399,000 |
| GL 16 | 451,000 |
| GL 17 | 512,000 |
Note: These figures represent the base salaries before allowances and other benefits.
Allowance Structure
Beyond base salaries, civil servants in Cross River State receive various allowances to supplement their income:
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Housing Allowance: Assists with accommodation expenses.
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Transport Allowance: Covers commuting costs.
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Medical Allowance: Supports healthcare needs.
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Leave Allowance: Provided during annual leave periods.
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Hazard Allowance: For roles involving risk.
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Responsibility Allowance: For positions with added duties.
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Uniform Allowance: For roles requiring specific attire.
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Training Allowance: Supports professional development initiatives.
These allowances vary based on grade level and specific job functions.
Pension Scheme
Cross River State operates a Contributory Pension Scheme, ensuring that both the employer and employee contribute to a pension fund. This system aims to provide financial security for civil servants upon retirement. The government has also undertaken efforts to address pension arrears, with plans to clear outstanding payments in phases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the new minimum wage in Cross River State?
A: The new minimum wage is ₦70,000 monthly, applicable to all entry-level positions in the civil service.
Q2: How is the salary structured across different grade levels?
A: Salaries are structured from GL 01 to GL 17, with each level corresponding to specific roles and responsibilities.
Q3: Are there plans to settle outstanding salary arrears?
A: Yes, the government has cleared five months of arrears in 2024 and plans to pay an additional five months in 2025.
Q4: What types of allowances are available to civil servants?
A: Civil servants receive housing, transport, medical, leave, hazard, responsibility, uniform, and training allowances, among others.
Q5: How does the pension scheme work?
A: The Contributory Pension Scheme involves both employer and employee contributions, ensuring financial security upon retirement.
Conclusion
The 2025 adjustments to the Cross River State civil service salary and allowance structure reflect the government's commitment to enhancing the welfare of its employees. With structured salary scales, increased pay, and comprehensive allowances, civil servants are better positioned to meet their financial needs and contribute effectively to public service delivery.
