Jigawa Govt Settles 609 Retirees With Over N1.5 Billion
From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
The Jigawa State Government, through its State and Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme, has disbursed over N1.543 billion as terminal benefits to 609 retirees across the state.
The beneficiaries are those who retired between August and December 2024 after completing 35 years of service or reaching the mandatory retirement age.
Speaking at the Board’s premises, the Executive Secretary, Dr. Bilyaminu Shitu Aminu, explained that the payments were categorized into four groups.
He revealed that 465 retirees who either completed 35 years in service or reached 60 years of age received N1.173 billion.
Additionally, families of 103 deceased staff were paid N315 million, while 39 retirees who passed away within five years of starting their monthly pensions were paid N54 million.
Two individuals who contributed for less than five years received N749,000, including a 15% interest.
Dr. Aminu warned pensioners against fraudsters, emphasizing that the Board’s services are free and urging retirees not to offer bribes for their entitlements.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi for his dedication to the welfare of retirees, noting that the prompt payment of pensions and gratuities has brought relief and dignity to pensioners.
He assured the retirees that the government remains committed to ensuring their well-being and delivering on its obligations.
Dr. Aminu stated that the gesture is part of the government’s shared prosperity agenda, which aims to enhance service delivery and improve the lives of retirees after service.
Some beneficiaries praised the governor for prioritizing their welfare, describing the initiative as a significant milestone in addressing the needs of retirees in the state.