Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has paid N32 billion out of the N48 billion gratuity backlog owed to retirees, a liability inherited by his administration in 2023.
Mr. Yusuf made the disclosure on Wednesday in Kano while inaugurating the sixth tranche of payments to retirees. He noted that the disbursement also covered death benefits owed to families of deceased workers.
The governor explained that N27 billion had been released in the first five tranches, while an additional N5 billion was paid in the sixth tranche, bringing the total amount paid so far to N32 billion.
“As at May 2023, this administration inherited N48 billion gratuity backlogs. However, N27 billion in five tranches and the new N5 billion for the sixth tranche have been released. As we speak, my administration has released N32 billion to clear some backlogs, with N16 billion pending,” he said.
Yusuf assured retirees that his administration remained committed to clearing the outstanding balance as part of efforts to address long-standing liabilities and promote responsible governance in the state.
According to him, the payments were aimed at reducing the hardship faced by retirees and families of deceased workers, restoring confidence in government, and promoting social justice.
He also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners for their patience and cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of other pensioners, Abubakar Hussein expressed appreciation to the governor for the gesture and called for continued support for the Yusuf-led administration.
