The Jigawa State government has commenced the payment of retirement and death benefits to 609 civil servants and deceased families amounting to over N1.5 billion. These payments are directed to those who retired or passed away while in active service during the last quarter of 2023.
This was contained in a statement issued, signed, and made available to Online Tribune in Dutse, the state capital, by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Ismaila Ibrahim Dutse. He stated that the beneficiaries were officers who retired from active service after thirty-five years between August and December last year (2024).
Speaking at the flag-off of the payments at the Pension House in Dutse, the executive secretary of the Jigawa State and Local Government Pension Board, Dr. Bilyaminu Shitu Aminu, said the payment was categorised into four groups. He explained that the first batch of 465 retired staff, who either reached the mandatory retirement age of 35 years in service or sixty years by birth, were paid N1,173,946,287.
The second category of 103 staff were those who died while in active service. Their relations were paid the sum of N315,023,121.01. The third batch consisted of 39 retirees who had started receiving monthly pensions but died before completing their minimum period of five years after retirement. They were paid N54,193,759.77.
Dr. Aminu added that the last batch comprised beneficiaries who had not contributed for the minimum period of five years. The law stipulates that staff must contribute for a minimum of five years to qualify for payments from the scheme. Only two people in this category received the sum of N749,010.31, including 15% interest.
“The State Government and the Board will continue to ensure prompt payment of pensions and other entitlements to workers for better service delivery, well-being of retirees, and a fulfilled life after service,” Shitu said.
Dr. Aminu called on the citizens of the State to continue supporting the government with their prayers to achieve a better Jigawa, where everyone will be comfortable in the shared prosperity agenda of the State.
The executive secretary warned pensioners across the state to be wary of fraudsters: “Our services are free; never bribe any of our staff for your terminal benefits, as we work under the guidelines established for our Board in accordance with Pension regulations.”
He expressed appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi, for his care and magnanimity towards pensioners in the State. He added that the prompt payment of pension and gratuity has helped to enliven the hearts of pensioners and prayed that God would continue to fortify the Governor to do more.
He stated that this gesture would enhance service delivery as well as bolster the well-being of retirees, allowing them to enjoy a fulfilled life after service.
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