Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has been commended for his commitment to the welfare of retirees following the clearance of a substantial N17.2 billion gratuity backlog.
The commendation came from the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in a letter addressed to the governor and signed by its General Secretary, Actor Zal. The pensioners expressed deep appreciation for the governor’s steadfast resolve in addressing a long-standing issue that had affected retirees for years.
The letter acknowledged Governor Yahaya’s compassionate and proactive approach in tackling the plight of pensioners, emphasizing that his intervention came after years of unsuccessful attempts to secure their rightful entitlements. The union described his leadership as dependable and visionary, highlighting his track record as a responsible leader.
The pensioners noted that upon assuming office in 2019, Governor Yahaya swiftly established a verification committee to ensure transparency and fairness in the disbursement of gratuities. This initiative has eased the hardship faced by retirees, many of whom had endured financial struggles due to prolonged payment delays.
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They further appreciated his administration’s deliberate efforts in addressing the accumulated pension liabilities, stating that his intervention had brought relief to their members and shielded them from economic hardship.
Reaffirming their support for the Inuwa-led administration, the pensioners pledged to back his policies and programs aimed at improving retirees’ welfare and the state’s overall development.
Governor Yahaya inherited a gratuity debt of over N21 billion, which had accumulated since 2012 for local governments and 2014 for the state government. Through strategic financial management and prioritization of workers’ welfare, his administration has successfully settled approximately 80% of the inherited liabilities. He has also reaffirmed his commitment to clearing the remaining balance before the end of his tenure, as stated by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe.
