Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has commenced the payment of N6 billion gratuities and death benefits to over 5,500 pensioners across the state. The governor inaugurated the payment at a ceremony held at the Coronation Hall, Government House in Kano on Saturday.

In his address, Governor Yusuf emphasized his commitment to improving the welfare of pensioners and workers in the state. He highlighted his efforts to stop “illegal” deductions from monthly salaries and pensions, a move that has significantly benefited these groups.

“The plight of retirees has been a major concern for me. They have dedicated their lives to serving the state, and it is only fair that they receive their due entitlements,” Governor Yusuf stated. “I will not tolerate any further deductions from their pensions and salaries.”

The governor condemned the past practice of deducting N5.4 billion from pensioners’ monthly pensions and pledged to implement a system that ensures consistent payment of gratuities and entitlements.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Kano State Pension Fund Trustees, Habu Fagge, acknowledged the inherited backlog of N48.6 billion in pension obligations. He assured the gathering that the Governor Yusuf administration has devised a plan to settle the backlog within 20 months.