Kano: Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has pledged to clear the backlog of gratuities and death benefits owed retirees in the state before the end of his first tenure in 2027. Yusuf made the promise during the inauguration of the payment of the 5th tranche of N5 billion gratuity and death benefit.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the backlog, amounting to N48 billion, was inherited from previous administrations, and the government had already commenced phased payments. Yusuf emphasized the administration’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens who served the state, outlining a strategic plan to liquidate the N48 billion backlog before 2027. He reported that N27 billion of the N48 billion had already been settled, with plans to initiate the payment of the 6th and 7th batch soon.
The governor noted that this initiative aims to restore the dignity of retired workers and alleviate the hardships faced by families of deceased civil servants. He urged retirees to exercise patience and understanding, assuring them of transparency and fairness in the disbursement process.
In response, Mr. Godwin Abumisi, President of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), commended the governor for his commitment and urged the continuation of the current pace. He highlighted the unfortunate reality that many pensioners had died while awaiting their entitlements, stressing the urgency of intervention to ease the suffering of surviving members.
Alhaji Habu Fagge, Executive Chairman of the Kano State Pension Trustee Fund, confirmed a backlog of N48 billion from previous administrations, with the current administration having paid a total of N27 billion so far. The Emir of Rano, Muhammad Umar, representing traditional rulers, praised the governor’s efforts toward retirees and the broader Kano community.