By Stephen Ojo
The Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has approved the disbursement of N25 billion for the payment of gratuities to retired civil servants in the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Special Assistant Print Media to the Governor, Aisha Wakaso on Friday in Minna the Niger state capital
She explained in the statement that the disbursement to 335 retirees as first batch has began, adding that the exercise is taking place at the premises of the Niger State Pension Board in Minna .
“The State government in her determination to address all issues affecting pensioners at the state and local government levels has approved and released the sum of N25 billion to clear all outstanding entitlements”.
She explained that the release of such a large sum for the payment of these gratuities is a testament to the administration’s commitment to the welfare of the state’s retired civil servants.
“This administration will ensure timely pension payments to prevent backlog in the future, and to alleviate the hardships faced by retirees and their families”, she further explained.
Krestnews quotes Governor in the statement warning against any attempts to tamper with the serial numbers and files of the beneficiaries, stating that anyone caught doing so will be dealt with decisively.
The payment process, according to her, will continue in batches, with the retirees from the local government areas set to receive their cheques starting from July 26, 2024.