Governor Bago Announces Resumption of Gratitude Payments, Clarifies No Pension Arrears Owed
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restart gratuity payments for both state and local government retirees.
He conveyed this during a meeting with leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Nigeria Union of Pensioners at the Government House in Minna.
He explained that the administration had previously started the payment process, covering up to 13 batches of retirees, but progress was halted due to irregularities. Emphasizing the importance of thorough verification, he directed his Deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, the Pension Board Management, and the leadership of both unions to work together closely and produce an accurate list of retirees for his approval, ensuring smooth payments.
The governor also clarified that the state currently owes no pension or salary arrears to public workers. He called for a verification process for pensioners under the defined scheme, urging records to be submitted for review.
Acknowledging pensioners’ contributions during their careers, he encouraged them to consider agriculture as an additional income source through Niger Foods, while assuring ongoing support.
He urged pensioners to cooperate with the current administration and to resist any incitements.
Additionally, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Mohammed Erena, appealed for approval to resume gratuity payments and review pensions.
The Niger State Chapter Chairman, Alh. Isiaku Ndagi, expressed gratitude to the governor for his willingness to restart payments and review pension schemes and assured efforts to mobilize members for verification.
