Gombe Governor Disburses ₦8.2 Billion To Retirees, Bringing Total Payout To ₦33.826 Billion

Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State has announced the release of ₦8.2 billion to settle part of the backlog of gratuities owed to retirees from the state and local government service.

Speaking at the Government House, Gombe, on Tuesday during the presentation of cheques to beneficiaries, Yahaya said the payment would benefit a total of 3,204 retirees across the state.

Of the amount, ₦6.6 billion is allocated to 2,142 state government retirees, while ₦1.6 billion is set aside for 1,062 local government retirees.

He explained, “Today, we are disbursing a further ₦8.2 billion in gratuity arrears to state and local government retirees. This includes ₦6.6 billion for 2,142 State Government retirees and ₦1.6 billion for 1,062 local government retirees, making a total of 3,204 beneficiaries.”

Yahaya noted that the payments were structured in line with the financial capacities of the respective tiers of government. He added, “Payment for state government retirees will cover the years 2021, 2022, and 2023. For local government retirees, disbursements will be made as follows: Funakaye, Kwami, and Nafada for 2024 retirees; Akko, Billiri, and Shongom for 2018 retirees; Dukku and Balanga for 2017 retirees; and Gombe, Kaltungo, and Yamaltu-Deba for 2016 retirees.”

With this latest release, the governor revealed that total gratuity payments since 2019 now stand at ₦33.826 billion — the highest in the state’s history. He stated, “With today’s disbursement, our cumulative gratuity payment has reached a historic ₦33.826 billion since 2019. No administration in Gombe State’s history has demonstrated a comparable commitment to the welfare of retirees who have served with dedication.”

Yahaya attributed the achievement to his administration’s prudent financial management and commitment to transparency. He said, “The payment of these obligations is a testament to our disciplined financial management and responsible utilisation of resources. For us, this is a matter of principle and sacred trust. We are determined to ensure that every retiree lives a life of dignity after a lifetime of service.”

He further assured that his government would continue to prioritise pensioners’ welfare, ensuring that “no one who has faithfully served Gombe State is left to suffer due to the non-payment of gratuities or any other rightful entitlement.”