Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Saturday, commenced the first tranche of the settlement of death benefits to families of deceased civil servants and gratuities of pensioners
No fewer than 6,000 beneficiaries who retired from the civil service and deceased workers between 2016 and 2019 are expected to benefit from the N6 billion earmarked for the payment in the first batch.
Speaking at the occasion held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Yusuf said the payment was possible despite meager resources, inherited empty treasury and competing developmental projects as the government had blocked leakages of public funds siphoning for the execution of more viable projects for the people of the state.
He said his administration was highly concerned with the plight of pensioners especially those at the lower level as they are the end recipients of the economic hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy in the country.
“To ensure the continuation of the settlement of the pension backlogs, N10 billion was proposed in the state next year’s budget for more inclusion of gratuity and death benefits of bereaved families of deceased’s civil servants to enjoy their legitimate entitlements,” he said.
He called on the beneficiaries to make judicious use of what they collected and invest wisely in lawful businesses for more income to cater to their daily needs and other necessities of life.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Aminu Gwarzo, appreciated the selection of beneficiaries with not more than N3 million at the state level and N1.5 million at the LG level; all within grade levels 1-6.
The Executive Chairman, State Pension Trustees Fund, Habu Fagge, said the commencement of the payment was a clear indication of Yusuf’s zeal to better the lives of pensioners and provide succour to the families of deceased civil servants.
