For years, the specter of unpaid gratuities loomed large over Gombe State, casting a long shadow on the lives of retired civil servants inflicting unsolicited hardships on the senior citizens who have sacrificed for the development of their dear state.
Despite numerous interventions by the Federal Government, including budget support and bailouts to the past administration, these individuals who dedicated their lives to serving the state were left to face financial insecurity and medical hardships in their twilight years.Upon assuming office in 2019, Governor Inuwa Yahaya inherited a staggering gratuity debt of over N21 billion, an accumulation of unpaid obligations spanning more than a decade. The burden was monumental, but the Governor, driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility, refused to be deterred.
Rather than sidestepping the issue or shifting blame, he chose to prioritize the welfare of retirees, many of whom had been forgotten by previous administrations. Inuwa Yahaya’s approach was bold, systematic, and above all, humane.
He made a concerted effort to break this cycle of neglect by implementing a comprehensive plan to clear the state’s massive gratuity backlog and ensuring a more dignified retirement for its deserving civil servants.
Tragically, many of these dedicated civil servants, who had devoted their lives to serving the state were struggling with medical emergencies and other hardships. Some have even succumbed to these challenges, leaving behind a legacy of service and a poignant reminder of the state’s unfulfilled obligations.
Faced with the daunting challenge of addressing a massive gratuity backlog amidst a challenging economic climate, Governor Inuwa Yahaya made a critical decision to prioritize the welfare of retired civil servants.
The governor deserves commendation for his compassionate approach to addressing a critical issue inherited from the previous administration: the failure to settle gratuities for six years. This neglect significantly increased the number of retirees awaiting their benefits since Governor Inuwa Yahaya assumed office.
Demonstrating a commitment to social justice, Governor Inuwa Yahaya chose a path of compassion and responsibility. Recognizing that all retired civil servants, regardless of when they served, had contributed to the state’s development and deserved dignity in their retirement, he prioritized the settlement of all outstanding gratuities, not just those accrued during his tenure.
The governor began by settling the gratuities of the oldest retirees, many of whom were grappling with age-related health issues. Tragically, some had even passed away before receiving their rightful benefits.
Over six years, his administration has made remarkable strides, clearing N17.2 billion in gratuity liabilities. This includes a N4.2 billion disbursement on January 6, 2025, which marks one of the largest single payments to retirees in the state’s history. These actions are not merely administrative milestones; they are lifelines for over 2,000 retirees and their families.
However, the challenge of clearing these obligations remains ongoing. As new retirees join the ranks, the government continues to grapple with the cumulative burden of past and present gratuity liabilities.
A key element of the Governor’s commitment is his pledge to clear all outstanding gratuity liabilities before the end of his tenure in 2027. This resolute promise provides a sense of assurance to retirees and demonstrates the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya stated, “I am pleased to reaffirm that it is our solemn commitment to clear all gratuity obligations before the end of our tenure in 2027. By doing so, we aim to leave a legacy of accountability and compassion, thus ensuring no retiree is left without the benefits they so rightly deserve.
Beyond providing much-needed relief to retirees facing financial hardship, this significant infusion of N4.2 billion into the state’s economy will have a ripple effect. Over 2,000 retirees are expected to utilize these funds to stimulate local economies through investments in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This increased economic activity will undoubtedly contribute to improved living standards for all residents of Gombe State.
Indeed, Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s actions are more than governance—they are a benevolence for humanity. Through his leadership, Gombe State is rewriting history, proving that compassion and accountability are the cornerstones of true progress.
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