The Ogun State Government has approved a N10,000 monthly transport allowance and a weekly day off for public servants as part of measures to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of living.
The approval was announced in a statement issued by the State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, and shared via the state’s official X handle on Thursday.
The intervention, which will run for three months from April 2026, is aimed at easing transportation challenges faced by workers following recent increases in fuel prices.
What the government is saying
The Ogun State Government said the initiative is designed to provide immediate relief while sustaining productivity across the public service.
- “Each eligible worker will receive a monthly N10,000 special transport allowance during the three-month period,” it stated.
Workers will also be entitled to one day off duty per week to ease commuting stress and improve work-life balance.
Certain categories of workers, including medical personnel, judicial staff, teachers, security personnel, Accounting Officers, and Heads of Departments, are exempted from the weekly day-off due to the critical nature of their duties.
Despite the exemption, all affected workers will still receive the transport allowance, ensuring broad-based support across the workforce.
Get up to speed
The measure comes against the backdrop of rising inflationary pressures across Nigeria.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that headline inflation rose to 15.38% in March 2026, up from 15.06% in February.
- The increase reflects persistent price pressures driven by food costs, exchange rate movements, and supply constraints.
- Global factors, including tensions in the Middle East, have also contributed to rising oil prices, further intensifying inflation concerns.
- These developments have continued to erode purchasing power and increase the cost of living for households.
More insights
The Head of Service noted that the implementation of the weekly day-off will be coordinated to avoid disruption of public services.
Accounting Officers across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) will determine suitable days off for eligible workers.
The arrangement is expected to balance staff welfare with uninterrupted service delivery.
Onasanya described the initiative as timely and commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for prioritising workers’ welfare.
He also urged public servants to reciprocate the government’s gesture with improved commitment, discipline, and productivity.
What you should know
The palliative measures come as the Ogun State Government pursues broader fiscal goals aimed at strengthening its economy.
- The state has set a target of generating N500 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the 2026 fiscal year.
- The target forms part of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (2026–2028), designed to boost economic independence.
- The strategy reflects efforts to enhance revenue generation while managing expenditure amid economic challenges.
The latest intervention highlights the state’s attempt to balance fiscal ambitions with social support for its workforce during a period of rising economic strain.
