Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has flagged off the final tranche of payment of over ₦8 billion of severance gratuities, accommodation and leave allowances to 1,371 former local government councillors in the state.
The former councillors served between 2021 and 2024,and the payment brought to an end all outstanding financial obligations owed to them by the state government.
The flag-off ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Coronation Hall of the Government House, Kano, with top government officials, senior civil servants and representatives of the beneficiaries in attendance.
In his remarks, Governor Yusuf recalled that during the earlier phase of the gratuity disbursement, he had promised that the final tranche would be paid before the end of 2025.
“When we commenced this exercise, I assured you that no former councillor would be left unpaid and that the final tranche would be settled before the end of 2025. Today, by the grace of Almighty Allah, we have fulfilled that promise,” the governor said.
He expressed gratitude to God for granting his administration the opportunity to complete the exercise, describing it as a major milestone in his government’s commitment to accountability and good governance.
“With the release of this final tranche, all financial obligations owed to former local government councillors have now been fully settled,” he said.
Yusuf disclosed that over ₦8 billion was released in the final tranche, bringing the total amount paid to former councillors to more than ₦15 billion.
“This exercise is a clear demonstration of our commitment to social justice, fairness and the welfare of our people, irrespective of political affiliation,” he said.
The Governor noted that his administration remained focused on people-oriented policies designed to ensure that the dividends of democracy reached the grassroots.
According to him, the payment of gratuities and allowances is a way of honouring public service and motivating those currently serving the state.
“When public servants are assured that their sacrifices will be recognised and rewarded, it boosts morale and encourages dedication to duty,” he said.
The governor commended the former councillors for their contributions to grassroots governance during their tenure and thanked them for their patience while awaiting the settlement of their entitlements.
He also appreciated public servants and officials involved in the process for their cooperation and commitment to the successful completion of the exercise.
In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano State, Hajiya Sa’adatu Yusha’u, described the payment as a clear indication of the administration’s resolve to fulfil its campaign promises.
“This settlement clearly shows that the Abba Kabir Yusuf-led administration is committed to keeping its word and prioritising the welfare of those who have served the state,” Sa’adatu said.
Representatives of the beneficiaries at the event commended the governor for fulfilling his pledge, describing the gesture as “timely and reassuring.”
They reaffirmed their support for the Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf administration’s people-focused agenda.
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