By Abdul Lauya
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a new Group Life Assurance Scheme for federal government employees, including paramilitary and staff of treasury-funded agencies.
This was disclosed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, during a press briefing at the State House following the sixth FEC meeting of the year.
According to Walson-Jack, the scheme ensures that the families of deceased public servants receive financial support through a life insurance policy funded by the federal government.
“This scheme underscores the importance that President Bola Tinubu’s administration places on the welfare of federal workers,” she said.
Beneficiaries of the scheme include top government officials such as the President, Vice President, Chief of Staff, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministers, permanent secretaries, and staff of treasury-funded agencies.
Also covered are personnel from key paramilitary bodies including the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Correctional Service, Federal Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The 2025/2026 policy year will begin once premiums are paid, in accordance with the “no premium, no cover” principle.
FEC approved the appointment of 17 insurance underwriters for the scheme, which will remain valid for 12 months from the commencement date.
In Nigeria, group life Assurance is mandatory for employers with five or more employees, as per the Pensions Reform Act of 2004.
This requires employers to maintain a life insurance policy for their employees that is at least three times the employees’ yearly total remuneration.
