Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has flagged off the payment of N6 billion in gratuities and death benefits to 3,313 retirees, marking the fourth phase of the state’s pension settlement scheme.
The event took place at the Coronation Hall of the Government House in Kano, where the governor presented a symbolic cheque of N4.5 billion to the Chairman of the Pension Board, Alhaji Habu Fagge, for disbursement to beneficiaries.
Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to address the backlog of unpaid entitlements and improve the welfare of retirees across the state. He stated that the payment covers beneficiaries who retired between 2020 and 2023, with each receiving entitlements of up to N2.5 million.
He recalled that his government had previously disbursed N6 billion to 4,915 retirees, followed by N5 billion to another 1,722, and an additional N5 billion to 1,579 pensioners in January 2025.
With the latest disbursement, a total of N22 billion has been released by his administration so far. He announced that another N5 billion has been earmarked for further payments in August and reiterated his commitment to clearing the N48 billion backlog inherited from the previous administration.
Governor Yusuf commended the Pension Board staff, along with the EFCC and ICPC, for investigating alleged irregularities involving 324 housing units built under the last government as pension investments.
He warned against corruption and favouritism in the pension system, declaring that any official caught engaging in dubious practices would face legal consequences.
Yusuf called on retirees to be patient, assuring them that all outstanding entitlements would be paid.
In his remarks, Alhaji Habu Fagge confirmed that the current administration has already settled N22 billion of the N48 billion debt left behind.
Also speaking, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Mr. Godwin Abumisi, described Governor Yusuf as a “Star Performance Governor” for his efforts in settling retirees’ benefits. The Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim, speaking on behalf of other traditional leaders, commended the administration’s commitment to pensioners.
Hajiya Amina Muhammad, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed appreciation for the government’s intervention, noting that it would significantly ease the financial burden faced by retirees.
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