Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has approved the release of ₦7.9 billion for the payment of outstanding gratuities owed to retirees at both the state and local government levels.
According to a statement from the Government House, Damaturu, the approval includes ₦5.8 billion for retired state public officers and ₦2.1 billion for retired local government workers.
The ₦2.1 billion allocation covers outstanding gratuities from January 2020 to May 2025 and has been directed to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Jajere, for immediate disbursement.
Governor Buni also instructed that gratuity payments be integrated into the state’s monthly financial schedule to ensure timely disbursement alongside regular pension payments, thereby preventing future backlogs.
Speaking on the development, Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Mohammed Abatcha, described the approval as a reflection of the governor’s “compassionate leadership and deep appreciation for the years of service rendered by retirees.”
He noted that the Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Office of the Head of Service, would ensure a transparent and seamless disbursement of funds to all eligible beneficiaries.
Similarly, Alhaji Ibrahim Jajere, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, commended the governor’s decision, emphasizing that it demonstrates the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and fiscal discipline.
He added that the move reaffirms the government’s resolve to ensure that retirees who have faithfully served Yobe State receive their entitlements promptly and without stress.
Both commissioners hailed the initiative as a bold step toward fiscal responsibility and a testament to the Buni administration’s dedication to the well-being of citizens, particularly those who contributed to the state’s development.
