By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Kaduna — Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has approved the release of N4.289 billion for the payment of pension entitlements, gratuities, and death benefits to retired civil servants and families of deceased workers across state and local government services.

The approval, according to the Kaduna State Government, covers obligations under both the Contributory Pension Scheme (Accrued Rights) and the Defined Benefit Scheme, including gratuities and death benefits. The move is part of the administration’s efforts to clear outstanding pension liabilities and strengthen social protection for senior citizens.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, the development was described as a demonstration of the governor’s people-oriented approach and commitment to the welfare of retirees.

“Governor Uba Sani remains deeply committed to the welfare of our senior citizens. This intervention goes beyond the settlement of liabilities; it is about restoring dignity, honouring years of meritorious service, and assuring our retirees and the families of deceased workers that their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” the commissioner stated.

Maiyaki explained that the latest disbursement is in line with the administration’s sustained efforts to address pension backlogs and rebuild confidence in the system.

He disclosed that with the new release, the total amount paid by the administration since inception has risen to N17.796 billion, benefiting no fewer than 8,344 retirees and families of deceased workers.

The commissioner added that the governor’s interventions in the pension sector form part of broader governance reforms aimed at promoting fiscal discipline, enhancing transparency, and ensuring sustainability in public finance management.

He assured that the Kaduna State Government would continue to adopt prudent financial strategies and institutional reforms to guarantee the timely settlement of pension obligations.

The government, he noted, remains committed to upholding the dignity of labour and ensuring that public servants retire with a sense of fulfilment, security, and respect.