Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State has disbursed ₦8.2 billion to clear part of the backlog of gratuities owed to retirees in the state and local government service.
Speaking at the Government House on Tuesday during the cheque presentation to beneficiaries, Yahaya said the payment covered a total of 3,204 retirees across the state.
He explained that ₦6.6 billion was approved for 2,142 state government retirees, while ₦1.6 billion was earmarked for 1,062 local government retirees.
“Today, we are disbursing a further ₦8.2bn in gratuity arrears to state and local government retirees. This comprises ₦6.6 billion for 2,142 retirees of the State Government, and ₦1.6 billion for 1,062 retirees from our Local Government Areas, making a total of 3,204 retirees,” Yahaya said.
He stated that the payments were arranged according to the financial strength of each tier of government.
“Payment for state government retirees will cover the years 2021, 2022, and 2023; while that for local government retirees will be conducted as follows: Funakaye, Kwami, and Nafada for 2024 retirees; Akko, Billiri, and Shongom for 2018 retirees; Dukku and Balanga for 2017 retirees; and Gombe, Kaltungo, and Yamaltu-Deba for 2016 retirees,” he said.
Yahaya added that the total gratuity payments made since 2019 now stand at ₦33.826 billion, the highest in Gombe State’s history.
“With today’s disbursement, our cumulative gratuity payment has reached a historic ₦33.826 billion since 2019. In the entire history of Gombe State, no administration has demonstrated a comparable commitment to the welfare of our retirees who have served with hard work and dedication,” he said.
He attributed the achievement to prudent financial management and a commitment to transparency, adding that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of pensioners.
“For us, this is a matter of principle and sacred trust. We are determined to ensure that every retiree lives a life of dignity after a lifetime of service,” Yahaya said.
