₦25.6bn Paid! Gombe Retirees Rejoice as Governor Clears Gratuity Backlog

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has flagged off the disbursement of over ₦2.06 billion in gratuity payments to 1,000 retired local government workers, reinforcing his administration’s promise to honor all outstanding entitlements owed to retirees.

According to iReporter Online, the flag-off ceremony took place at the Government House in Gombe, where Governor Yahaya reiterated his administration’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of retirees, both at the state and local government levels. He revealed that the total amount paid in gratuities since 2019 has now exceeded ₦25.6 billion — a significant milestone made possible through disciplined fiscal management.

Governor Yahaya stated that when he took office, his administration inherited over ₦21 billion in unpaid gratuities, a backlog that had crippled the morale and livelihoods of thousands of retirees. He emphasized that his government has remained resolute in its commitment to clearing the inherited burden, noting that previous administrations often relied on loans just to cover salaries, leaving pensioners behind.

With the latest disbursement of ₦2,060,337,466.45, the total gratuity paid to retirees since 2019 now stands at ₦25.626 billion. The governor announced a strategic plan to achieve zero gratuity debt by 2027 through continued quarterly payments, prudent public financial management, and sustainable reforms.

According to iReporter Online, the payments will follow an equitable model where each local government area will disburse funds according to its financial capability. For instance, Kwami, Nafada, and Funakaye are paying off 2023 retirees; Akko, Billiri, and Shongom are handling 2016–2017 cases; Dukku will settle 2016 retirees; Balanga is addressing 2015 and 2016 obligations; Gombe and Kaltungo will pay 2014–2015 retirees; and Yamaltu Deba will focus on 2015 beneficiaries.

The state’s Auditor-General and Chairman of the Gratuity Payment Committee, Muhammad Buba, lauded the governor’s consistent efforts, calling them a bold step towards restoring dignity to Gombe’s civil servants. He urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely to support their well-being and community involvement.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Umar Maude described the development as a “life-saving intervention,” noting that the Yahaya-led administration has succeeded where others failed. He lamented that many retirees lost their lives in the past due to neglect and economic hardship. However, he said, the tide has changed — and today, many retirees are finally smiling after more than a decade of uncertainty.

According to iReporter Online, the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the government for delivering on its promise and restoring faith in public service.