Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has launched the fourth tranche of gratuity and death benefit payments to 3,313 retired civil servants, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to clearing the backlog of pension liabilities inherited from the previous government.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Thursday for retirees covering the 2020–2023 period, Governor Yusuf reiterated his determination to ease the prolonged financial hardship faced by pensioners and their families.
“In line with our campaign promise to address the N48 billion backlog of unpaid benefits to retirees, we have so far paid N22 billion. An additional N5 billion has been earmarked and will be disbursed before the end of August,” the governor stated.
He added, “We are dedicated to ensuring the well-being and welfare of civil servants and retirees in the state. All your entitlements will be paid not only for your benefits but as soon as they are due, for the socio-economic development of our state and the restoration of trust in government.”
Governor Yusuf warned that his administration would not tolerate corrupt or preferential practices in the distribution of pension benefits and appealed for continued patience, assuring that the remaining balance would be paid in subsequent phases.
As part of the event, the governor also presented a N4.5 billion housing cheque to Alhaji Abu Fagge, Chairman of the Kano State Pension Board, aimed at improving housing support for senior citizens.
In his remarks, Kano State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, praised the administration’s efforts, describing the payouts as a reflection of the governor’s respect for the dignity and sacrifices of workers.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Shuibu Jibril, lauded the state government for its continued support and urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, especially given the prevailing economic challenges.
The ongoing disbursements mark a significant stride in the governor’s drive to restore confidence in government and uphold the rights and welfare of retired workers across Kano State.
