In a bold step to combat inflation and improve living conditions, the Kwara State Government has not only implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage but also revised the entire salary structure of its civil servants in 2025. This move places Kwara among the states offering one of the most competitive and rewarding compensation systems for public workers in Nigeria.
The state aims to boost staff morale, improve productivity, and retain top talent in its ministries, departments, and agencies.
Updated Kwara Civil Service Salary Structure (2025)
Kwara State maintains the standard Grade Level (GL) system ranging from GL 01 (entry-level) to GL 17 (top management). Below is the enhanced monthly salary scale reflecting competitiveness with federal standards and neighboring states:
|
Grade Level (GL) |
Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
GL 01 |
75,000 – 90,000 |
|
GL 02 |
90,000 – 105,000 |
|
GL 03 |
110,000 – 125,000 |
|
GL 04 |
130,000 – 145,000 |
|
GL 05 |
150,000 – 165,000 |
|
GL 06 |
170,000 – 190,000 |
|
GL 07 |
200,000 – 220,000 |
|
GL 08 |
230,000 – 260,000 |
|
GL 09 |
270,000 – 300,000 |
|
GL 10 |
310,000 – 340,000 |
|
GL 12 |
360,000 – 390,000 |
|
GL 13 |
400,000 – 430,000 |
|
GL 14 |
450,000 – 480,000 |
|
GL 15 |
500,000 – 550,000 |
|
GL 16 |
580,000 – 620,000 |
|
GL 17 |
650,000 – 700,000 |
Note: Actual pay may vary slightly depending on department, experience, and technical qualifications.
Key Allowances & Benefits
In addition to base salaries, Kwara civil servants enjoy generous allowances to cushion economic realities and support effective job performance:
Types of Allowances:
- Housing Allowance: Up to 30% of salary
- Transport Allowance: ₦35,000–₦100,000 depending on GL
- Medical Allowance: For workers and immediate family
- Hazard Allowance: For health workers, law enforcement, and high-risk duties
- Leave Allowance: 10% of annual salary during vacation
- Uniform Allowance: For security, health, and environmental officers
- Responsibility Allowance: For unit heads and supervisors
- Professional Development Allowance: For continuous training and certification
- Duty Tour Allowance (DTA): Covers travel expenses during official assignments
Bonuses and Incentives
Kwara civil servants also benefit from performance bonuses and seasonal incentives, such as:
- 13th Month Salary (December Bonus)
- Annual Performance Bonus (for outstanding staff)
- Promotion-linked pay raises every 3–5 years
Pension & Retirement Security
Kwara State operates the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), in which both the government and the employee contribute monthly:
- Employee Contribution: 8% of basic salary
- Government Contribution: 10% of basic salary
Retired workers are entitled to pension payouts, gratuities, and post-retirement benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the minimum wage for civil servants in Kwara State?
A: The official minimum wage is ₦70,000, but many workers now earn even more based on updated grade-level salaries.
Q2: What is the average salary of a university graduate in the civil service?
A: Most degree holders start at GL 08, earning between ₦230,000 and ₦260,000 monthly.
Q3: Are Kwara State civil servants entitled to bonuses?
A: Yes. Eligible workers receive a 13th-month salary and performance-based bonuses.
Q4: Do junior officers receive medical and housing allowances?
A: Yes, all civil servants regardless of level are entitled to housing, medical, and transport allowances.
Q5: How often do promotions occur?
A: Promotions usually happen every 3 to 5 years, depending on performance and available vacancies.
Conclusion
Kwara State has clearly prioritized its civil workforce with a modern, competitive, and inclusive salary structure in 2025. From the ₦75,000 starting wage to high-level salaries that rival federal pay scales, the state offers a financially rewarding environment backed by allowances, bonuses, and retirement benefits.
If you’re considering a public service career in Nigeria, Kwara State stands out as one of the most supportive and progressive places to work today.
