Please, I have a question for those in the civil service.

When they say someone is on CONTISS 7 (N579,391- N857,305), Does this amount represent total take-home pay (less taxes) or are there some other allowances not included in the above package?

Those figures are what is referred to as 'gross income' i.e. they are inclusive of taxes and other deductions that may be effected. It is not net pay, which you may call 'take home pay.

There could be other allowances, especially DTA which is payable if you are going to an official duty outside your duty station. These allowances are amended from time to time by Government circulars. The Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) is graduated according to your salary scale, the higher your scale the better,

Not to worry, when you are offered the job, you will get to know more about the civil service. . I hope I have answered your question.

na wa o!
how can somebody earning so little survive in this country?

It's that bad bro.

THAT IS WHY THEY ARE CALLED 'CIVIL SERVANTS'.  THE GOOD THING ABOUT IT IS THAT IT TRICKLES IN REGULARLY, JUST TO KEEP BODY AND SOUL TOGETHER.  :DWE HOPE IT WILL BE INCREASED SOON, AFTERALL THEY WERE PROMISED A 'LIVING WAGE' THIS YEAR. IT IS HOPED THEY WILL FEEL THE GOODLUCK OF AG. PRESIDENT JONATHAN.