Retirees across Yobe State have expressed deep appreciation to Governor Mai Mala Buni for approving the sum of N7.9 billion for the payment of outstanding gratuities owed to both state and local government ex-workers.
Governor Buni, in a decisive move last week, approved the release of N5.8 billion for the settlement of outstanding gratuities owed to retired state workers in addition to directing the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Ibrahim Jajere, to commence the payment of another N2.1 billion in outstanding gratuities for retired local government staff, covering the period from January 2020 to May 2025.
The approval, which addresses years of accumulated arrears, has been described by beneficiaries as a “lifeline” that will ease their financial burdens and improve their standard of living.
The retirees noted that the decision reflects the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare and respect for their service to the state.
Alhaji Musa Goni, a retired state civil servant, said the governor’s gesture had restored hope to many families.
“This payment will go a long way in addressing the challenges we have been facing since retirement. Governor Buni has once again demonstrated his concern for the wellbeing of ex-workers,” he stated.
For Mrs. Hauwa Audu, also a retired state worker, the news came as a relief after years of waiting.
“I can now settle outstanding bills and support my family and children as well as grandchildren’s education. This is a blessing we have prayed for,” she said.
Also, Malam Ibrahim Bukar, who retired from local government service, described the development as a turning point.
“It is not easy for retirees to survive without gratuity. This approval shows that the governor values the sacrifices we made during our active years in service,” he noted.
Madam Kaltume Adamu who retired as an admin staff at the local government said the payment would change her family’s life.
“I didn’t expect it this early. With this money, I can improve my small business and take care of household needs. Governor Buni has given us new hope,” she expressed.
The commissioner of finance, Hon Mohammed Abatcha Geidam has in a statement last week said, Governor Mai Mala Buni approved the immediate release of N5.8 billion for the settlement of all outstanding gratuity liabilities owed to retired state public officers.
The statement added that the governor has further directed that, going forward, the payment of gratuities must be integrated into the state’s monthly financial schedule.
“This means that cleared gratuity payments will be made monthly, alongside the regular pension payments, ensuring that no future backlog of retirement benefits is allowed to accumulate”, the Commissioner said.
Hon. Geidam added that the approval of N5.8 billion is a “clear demonstration of Governor Buni’s compassionate leadership and his administration’s deep appreciation for the years of service rendered by Yobe’s retirees”.
The statement emphasised that the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Head of Service are working collaboratively to ensure the seamless and transparent disbursement of these funds to all affected retirees immediately.
Also, the commissioner of Local government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Ibrahim Jajere said, “This approval reflects the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and its resolve to ensure that retirees who have served the state faithfully receive their entitlements promptly.”
The two commissioners described the initiative as a bold financial step towards a broader economic and social agenda to ensure fiscal responsibility and priority to the welfare of Yobe State citizens, particularly those who have contributed immensely to its growth and development.
