Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has pledged to clear the ₦48 billion backlog of gratuities and death benefits owed retirees before the end of his first term in 2027.
Yusuf made the promise on Wednesday in Kano during the inauguration of the fifth tranche of ₦5 billion for gratuities and death benefits.
He explained that his administration inherited the liabilities from previous governments but had already begun phased settlements.
“My administration is committed to the welfare of our senior citizens who served the state diligently. We have mapped out a strategic plan to liquidate the ₦48 billion backlog before 2027. So far, we have settled ₦27 billion, and very soon we are going to flag off the payment of the sixth and seventh batches,” Yusuf said.
The governor emphasised that the initiative was aimed at restoring the dignity of retired workers and easing the hardships faced by families of deceased civil servants. He appealed for patience and understanding, assuring retirees of fairness and transparency.
President of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Godwin Abumisi, praised the governor’s commitment but noted that many pensioners had died while awaiting their entitlements. He urged Yusuf to accelerate the process to reduce the suffering of survivors.
The Executive Chairman of the Kano State Pension Trustee Fund, Alhaji Habu Fagge, confirmed that the government had inherited the ₦48 billion backlog, of which ₦27 billion had already been cleared.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Umar, commended the governor’s strides, particularly towards the welfare of retirees and the people of Kano.
One of the beneficiaries, Malam Abubakar Musa, expressed gratitude, saying the payment would greatly alleviate their hardship.
