By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse
The Jigawa State and Local Governments Contributory Pension Scheme Board has disbursed over N1.4 billion to 564 retirees across the state.
Speaking at the Pension House in Dutse ahead of the disbursement, the State Accountant General, Alhaji Abdullahi S.G. Shehu, described Jigawa’s pension model as one of the best in Nigeria, noting that it has continued to attract interest from other states seeking to adopt similar practices.
He reiterated the commitment of Governor Malam Umar Namadi to the welfare of civil servants, commending the governor for consistently prioritising pension reforms and strengthening the scheme. According to him, since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Namadi has injected over N11 billion into the pension system to enhance its sustainability and efficiency.
The Accountant General further explained that the Pension Board remains up to date in the payment of retirement benefits, including entitlements of officers who died while in active service. He added that Jigawa State has also implemented the new national minimum wage of N70,000, placing its civil servants among those enjoying the best salary packages in the country.
On his part, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State and Local Governments Contributory Pension Scheme Board, Dr. Binyaminu Shitu Aminu, disclosed that a total sum of N1,429,201,208.92 was approved for the exercise. He said the amount covers retirement benefits, death benefits, and outstanding death pension balances.
Dr. Aminu explained that N1,191,804,237.17 was paid to 485 civil servants who retired from active service, while N226,547,197.84 went to the families of 71 deceased civil servants. He added that N10,849,773.91 was disbursed to the families of eight pensioners as outstanding death pension balances.
The Executive Secretary reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to the timely payment of retirees’ entitlements, noting that monthly pensions are consistently paid on the first day of every month. He emphasized that the state government remains dedicated to improving the welfare of workers and ensuring a secure and dignified life for retirees after service.
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