Niger State government has disbursed N500 million for the payment of retirement benefits to the first batch of 452 retirees in the state.
Yesterday, the ceremonial presentation of cheques was performed by the deputy governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, who represented Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
The deputy governor said that even those who retired over 20 years ago were among the beneficiaries, saying it was with mixed feelings that those retirees were receiving their benefits.
“We are here with Joy and mixed feelings because, since 2003, about 21 years, the first person on this list retired. I believe even a child born in that year is an adult now, so why will the person rejoice for something delayed for 21 years,” he said.
He said the government had adopted a payment strategy to prioritise those who retired first in the payment schedules based on retirement date and year.
Comrade Garba said each of the batches will be allocated N500 million, and the number of beneficiaries will depend on the amount to be paid to each beneficiary.
He said, “It is not free money. It is your right, and it is a continuous process. The issue of pension has suffered setbacks, and we have made laws not implemented,” he added.
The deputy governor said that pension arrears are still lingering and will be addressed appropriately.
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