Gombe State Government has reduced the backlog of gratuities owed to local and state retirees by previous administrations.

Our correspondent reports that the debt owed retirees was reduced from N21bn to N7bn.

Disclosing this on Thursday at the presentation of N5.4bn cheques to state and local government workers, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya said the event marked his administration’s commitment towards improving the welfare of civil servants and retirees in the state.

He added that his administration recognises the contributions of the retirees to the development of the state.

Yahaya said, “On assumption of office in 2019, one of the key challenges we inherited was the backlog of N21bn in gratuity arrears owed to state and local government retirees.

“In our unwavering pursuit of justice and fairness, we made it a priority to address this issue head-on. Over the past five years, we cleared over N7bn of these backlogs, thus providing much-needed relief and dignity to our retirees who have dedicated their lives to the service of our dear state.”

While explaining how N5.4bn was distributed to both state and LG workers, Yahaya said the payment was done based on the financial strength of the 11 LGs.

“In this round of payment, we are paying the sum of NGN5,440,045,865.73 to both state and local government retirees. The State Government will settle the backlog of 2018 retirees.

“In the case of our Local Government Areas, the payment is implemented based on individual resources, with financially capable local governments able to settle more of such obligations than their less-capable counterparts.

“In this regards, Kwami, Funakaye and Nafada Local Government Areas are able to clear all their backlogs; Akko, Billiri, Dukku and Shongom are to settle the ones for 2014 and 2015 retirees; Balanga and Yamaltu Deba are to clear the backlogs of 2013 and 2014 retirees; while Kaltungo and Gombe are to clear the one for 2013 retirees only,” he noted.

Yahaya stated that “this approach would go a long way in entrenching prudence and accountability because it is only fair for each LG to bear its burden.”

While expressing optimism to cater to the needs of workers, Yahaya urged for equal commitment, saying, “However, we must also demand commensurate productivity and dedication from our civil servants. As the adage goes, ‘To whom much is given, much is also expected.’

“To this end, we introduced the biometric attendance system in our ministries, departments and agencies in order to enhance productivity and accountability in the service. This policy measure not only promotes transparency and efficiency but also fosters a culture of discipline and responsibility among civil servants, thereby ensuring that taxpayer funds are utilised judiciously for the benefit of all.”