The Gombe State government has begun disbursing N4.2 billion in outstanding gratuity arrears to 2,204 retirees.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya inaugurated the exercise on Monday in Gombe and pledged to settle the gratuity backlog before his term expires in 2027.

He said his administration inherited over N21 billion in gratuity backlog for state and local government retirees from the previous administrations.

The governor said the government expended N17.2 billion to settle gratuity/pension liabilities inherited by his administration in the last six years.

Mr Yahaya said his administration struggled to clear past and present obligations, which kept surging as more workers exited the service.

He said the current outstanding gratuity obligations are N19 billion for state and local government retirees.

“We shall use all means possible to clear it so that we don’t leave such a burden again to whoever will inherit as the governor of Gombe State.

“By doing so, we aim to leave a legacy of accountability and compassion, thus ensuring no retiree is left without the benefits they so rightly deserve,” he said.

Mr Yahaya said the payment of gratuities and implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage underscored his administration’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of civil servants and retirees.

The governor urged civil servants to approach their job with renewed dedication and excellence, adding, “To whom much is given, much is expected.

(NAN)