The Jigawa State and Local Governments Contributory Pension Scheme Board has commenced the payment of N1.39 billion in retirement and death benefits to 560 retirees and families of deceased civil servants across the State.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Bilyaminu Aminu, announced the commencement of the disbursement during a ceremony held at the Pension House in Dutse, the State capital.
READ ALSO:Chinese Firm Targets $2 Billion Investment in Jigawa State
He said the amount covers gratuities, death benefits and outstanding pension balances for retirees and the next of kin of deceased workers from the State Civil Service, Local Government Councils and Local Education Authorities.
According to him, 453 retirees will receive N1.101 billion as gratuity payments, while 90 families of civil servants who died in active service will benefit from N261.86 million in death benefits.
Dr. Aminu added that 17 families of pensioners who passed away before completing the mandatory five-year post-retirement pension period would receive the balance of their pension entitlements amounting to N26.56 million.
He said the prompt payment demonstrates “the State government’s resolve to ensure retirees and the families of deceased workers receive their entitlements without delay.
“The Jigawa State and Local Governments Contributory Pension Scheme remains up to date in the payment of retirement benefits, death benefits and monthly pensions to all eligible beneficiaries” he said.
The Executive Secretary commended Governor Umar Namadi for his sustained support and reforms, which he said have strengthened the pension scheme and improved the welfare of retired civil servants.
Also speaking, the State Accountant-General, Alhaji Abdullahi Shehu, disclosed that the Namadi administration has injected over N9 billion into the pension scheme as a bailout since assuming office in 2023.
He said the intervention had significantly improved the financial health of the scheme, ensuring prompt settlement of pension obligations and boosting the confidence of workers approaching retirement.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on the Contributory Pension Scheme, Idris Aminu, praised Governor Namadi for prioritising the welfare of pensioners, describing the Jigawa contributory pension scheme as one of the most efficient in the country.
He noted that the consistent payment of retirement and death benefits reflects government’s commitment to guaranteeing financial security for civil servants after years of service.
Several beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the State government for the timely release of their entitlements, saying the payments will help them meet their financial responsibilities and improve their standard of living in retirement.
