Buni approves N7.9bn for payment of gratuities

Mai Mala Buni of Yobe has approved the payment of N7.9 billion for the payment of outstanding gratuities of the state’s and local governments’ retirees.

This is contained in a statement by Buni’s Director-General Press and Media Affairs, Alhaji Mamman Mohammed, in Damaturu on Thursday.

He said the governor had on Sunday conveyed his approval to the state Commissioner of Finance, Alhaji Mohammed Abatcha, for payment of N5.8 billion to the state pensioners.

Similarly, Mohammed said, Buni also approved the payment of N2.1 billion to local governments’ retirees, covering the period of January 2020 to May 2025.

Mohammed said Buni also directed that henceforth payment of gratuities be integrated into the state’s monthly financial schedule.

“This is indicating that all cleared payments will be made monthly, alongside the regular pension payments, to avoid accumulation of backlog of retirement benefits,” the aide said.

Mohammed said the approvals demonstrated Buni’s compassionate leadership and his administration’s deep appreciation for the years of service rendered by retirees.

“The clearance of the substantial backlog and institutionalization of the prompt monthly payment system, has provided the much-needed financial relief and restoration of dignity in labour to all retirees.

“The Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Head of Service are working in collaboration to ensure a seamless and transparent disbursement of these funds to all affected retirees immediately” Mohammed quoted Abatcha as saying.

He said the state Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Jajere, also noted that the approval reflected the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

The aide said both commissioners had promised to ensure transparency in the payment process as directed by the governor.