Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has approved the immediate release of N3.8 billion to the State Pension Bureau to pay gratuities, death benefits, and accrued pension rights under the contributory pension scheme.

This was disclosed in a statement by the governor’s chief press secretary, Ibraheem Musa.

Mr Sani gave the directive on compassionate grounds, following appeals from pensioners and families of deceased civil servants who lamented the hardship caused by the ongoing pension verification exercise.

Mr Sani reaffirmed the importance of the verification process in eliminating ghost pensioners and safeguarding public funds.

The governor also directed the bureau to commence the immediate disbursement to the affected retirees and beneficiaries.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of pensioners, stating that the clean-up of the payroll was intended to ensure consistent and uninterrupted payment of pensions.

Mr Sani acknowledged the sacrifices made by the senior citizens in the service of the state and emphasised the need to support them during retirement.

He also assured that the verification exercise would be concluded swiftly to allow for a smooth and regular pension payment system.

Mr Sani also thanked the pensioners for their patience, understanding, and support.

Since assuming office in May 2023, Mr Sani has released N6.6 billion for the settlement of gratuities, death benefits, and accrued rights.

(NAN)