The policy, set to take effect from April 2026, will run initially for three months as part of government efforts to support workers amid economic pressures.

The State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, said the initiative is designed to ease commuting challenges and boost productivity across the civil service.

He explained that workers will be granted one day off each week, while also receiving the monthly transport stipend.

According to him, the specific day off will be scheduled by Accounting Officers in ministries and agencies to avoid disruption of government operations.

However, he noted that essential workers such as medical personnel, security operatives, judicial officers, and teachers will be exempted from the weekly day-off arrangement due to the critical nature of their duties.

Despite the exemptions, all eligible public servants will still receive the ₦10,000 transport allowance.

Onasanya described the measure as a timely and compassionate intervention aimed at improving welfare and sustaining morale in the public service.

Wike made the comment on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Abuja, while responding to Atiku’s criticism of the current administration.

Atiku had earlier alleged that the government has failed to improve the lives of Nigerians, a claim Wike dismissed, insisting that visible development is ongoing in the Federal Capital Territory.

He challenged Atiku to compare the state of Abuja during his time in office with what is currently obtainable.

Wike described Atiku as a “serial contestant and loser,” adding that Nigerians would find it amusing to hear such criticism from him.

He maintained that governance and infrastructure development would continue despite political distractions, stressing that contractors are focused on delivering projects.

The minister also assured residents that key road projects, including the Airport to Kuje road, are nearing completion and will be delivered as scheduled.

His reaction follows Atiku’s recent interview on Arise Television, where the former Vice President said 2027 may be his last attempt to become Nigeria’s president.

In a post shared on social media, Fayose questioned Atiku’s decision to return to the ballot, arguing that it goes against current political expectations on power rotation.

He claimed that Atiku’s continued ambition would indirectly benefit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, suggesting it could split opposition chances in 2027.

Fayose insisted that it is time for the South to complete its political cycle, adding that Atiku’s repeated bids for the presidency were unfair and out of step with current realities.

He further argued that Atiku’s participation in the race would strengthen Tinubu’s re-election prospects, describing the move as politically counterproductive for the opposition.