Governor Uba Sani has approved the release of N4.28 billion for the payment of pension entitlements, gratuities, and death benefits to retired civil servants and families of deceased workers in the state.

The approval covers obligations under the contributory pension scheme (accrued rights) as well as the defined benefit scheme, which includes gratuities and death benefits for both state and local government employees.

The commissioner for information and culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Kaduna.

Mr Maiyaki said the move reflected the governor’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of senior citizens and clearing outstanding pension liabilities.

According to him, the intervention is aimed at restoring dignity to retirees and recognising their years of meritorious service.

“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 and honouring years of service.

“It also assures retirees and families of deceased workers that their sacrifices will not be forgotten,” he said.

The commissioner added that the disbursement was part of ongoing efforts by the administration to address pension backlogs and rebuild confidence in the system.

He noted that with the latest release, the total amount paid under the administration had risen to N17.79 billion, benefiting no fewer than 8,344 retirees and families of deceased workers.

Mr Maiyaki further stated that the government’s interventions in the pension sector were tied to broader reforms aimed at promoting fiscal discipline, transparency, and sustainability in public finance management.

He reassured that the state government would continue to implement prudent financial strategies to ensure timely payment of pension obligations and safeguard the long term viability of the system.

The commissioner reiterated the administration’s resolve to uphold the dignity of labour and ensure that public servants retire with fulfilment, security, and respect.

(NAN)