Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has released another N5 billion for the payment of outstanding pension and gratuity arrears, bringing the total settlement so far to N27 billion since he assumed office.
The latest disbursement, which covers entitlements from 2017 and benefits 1,026 retirees, is part of a broader effort by the administration to clear the N48 billion backlog owed to pensioners in the state.
Governor Yusuf, speaking at the launch of the fifth tranche on Wednesday, said his government is determined to eliminate the burden of unpaid benefits before the end of his first term.
“This is part of our commitment to end the long-standing hardship faced by retirees and their families,” Yusuf said. “By the grace of God, before the end of this tenure, we will settle all outstanding gratuities and death benefits.”
The governor also announced plans to launch a mega empowerment initiative for 4,000 youths across the state, each of whom will receive N150,000 as start-up capital.
The gesture drew applause from the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), whose National President, Comrade Godwin Abumisi, described Yusuf as a “star performer” and declared the union’s support for his re-election bid in 2027.
“Governor Yusuf belongs to the first category of governors who not only build infrastructure but also pay pensions and gratuities. For his magnanimity, pensioners will pay him back in 2027. One good term deserves another,” Abumisi said.
He urged other state governors to emulate Kano’s model by prioritising retirees’ welfare.
Former Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, also lauded the administration’s intervention, saying the payments would have a multiplier effect on both the economy and social stability of the state.
The governor’s administration has disbursed arrears in five phases: N6 billion (first tranche), N5 billion (second), N5 billion (third), N6 billion (fourth), and N5 billion (fifth).
