Yobe Governor Mai Mala Buni approves ₦7.9bn release to clear five years’ gratuity arrears for state and local government retirees, ensuring monthly payments going forwa

Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has approved the release of ₦7.9 billion to settle five years of outstanding gratuity payments owed to both state and local government retirees.

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The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday by Mamman Mohammed, Director General of Press and Media Affairs to the Governor, who disclosed that the approvals were conveyed earlier this week.

According to the statement, Governor Buni authorised the release of ₦5.8 billion to the Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Mohammed Abatcha, designated for payment of gratuities to retired state public officers.

In addition, ₦2.1 billion was approved for the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Jajere, to clear outstanding gratuities owed to local government retirees from January 2020 to May 2025.

In a move aimed at preventing future backlog, Governor Buni directed that gratuity payments should henceforth be integrated into the state’s monthly financial schedule, ensuring that cleared payments are made alongside regular pension disbursements.

This bold financial initiative is expected to bring much-needed relief and restore dignity to retirees who have patiently awaited their entitlements.

Commissioner Abatcha assured that the Ministry of Finance, in partnership with the Office of the Head of Service, is working to ensure transparent and seamless disbursement of funds to all affected retirees without delay.

Similarly, Commissioner Jajere described the release as a testament to the administration’s dedication to workers’ welfare and its commitment to ensuring retirees receive their benefits promptly.

Both commissioners emphasised that the initiative forms part of a broader economic and social agenda aimed at fiscal responsibility and prioritising the welfare of Yobe State citizens, particularly those who have significantly contributed to the state’s growth.