…Directs MDAs on full implementation
The Niger State Government has approved an extension of maternity leave for female civil servants from three months to six months, in a move aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes across the state.
The approval was granted by the Niger State Executive Council dated January 5, 2026, and communicated through a circular issued by the Office of the Head of Service and signed by the Head of Service, Abubakar Sadiq Idris, FNIMGS.
According to the circular, the policy aligns with the state government’s broader commitment to improving the wellbeing of children and adolescents, reducing malnutrition, and advancing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The circular directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to immediately bring the approval to the attention of all female staff and ensure full implementation of the new maternity leave policy going forward.
The government noted that the extension of maternity leave is expected to support breastfeeding, maternal recovery after childbirth, and overall family wellbeing, while reinforcing the state’s commitment to gender-responsive public service policies.
