In a bold move to honor his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has approved the release of a substantial N925 million to settle gratuities and death benefits for 367 beneficiaries. The payment, a significant step toward addressing lingering arrears, underscores the governor’s dedication to both serving and retired civil servants in the state.
This development was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Rashid Muhammad-Bala, a spokesperson from the Office of the Head of Service. According to the statement, the funds will cover beneficiaries across various levels of service, including state employees, contract staff, Local Government employees, and those in the Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs). The payments are scheduled to settle outstanding benefits accrued between July 16 and September 15, 2024.
Governor Idris’ decision comes as a beacon of hope for beneficiaries and their families, many of whom have endured months of uncertainty over unpaid entitlements. Muhammad-Bala emphasized the administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the welfare of its workforce, ensuring a sense of financial security for those who have dedicated their lives to public service.
“This approval reflects the governor’s resolve to not only clear longstanding debts but also to improve the livelihood of civil servants, retirees, and the families of deceased workers,” the statement read. “It also demonstrates his administration’s proactive approach to addressing labor-related challenges.”
This payout marks one of the most substantial financial interventions for gratuity and death benefits in Kebbi State in recent years. It is part of a broader agenda under the Idris administration to promote social security and foster economic stability among the workforce. Since assuming office, the governor has consistently advocated for the timely and fair disbursement of wages and benefits, positioning Kebbi State as a model for labor relations in Nigeria.
Beyond its economic implications, this payment initiative has sparked widespread optimism among stakeholders. Families of deceased civil servants, many of whom have faced financial hardships, expressed their gratitude for the long-awaited support. Retirees, too, welcomed the move, noting that such actions restore trust in the government’s pledge to prioritize workers’ well-being.
A beneficiary, Malam Abdul Usman, a retired teacher from Jega Local Government, shared his thoughts: “This is a huge relief. Many of us had given up hope. The governor has shown that he listens and cares about our plight.”
Observers see this step as a testament to Governor Idris’ administration’s foresight and prioritization of human capital. By clearing these arrears, the government not only addresses immediate financial pressures but also lays the groundwork for enhanced productivity and morale among public servants.
While challenges persist in ensuring comprehensive financial reforms, the release of this N925 million fund is a significant milestone that will be remembered for its tangible impact on the lives of hundreds in Kebbi State.
As Kebbi navigates the complexities of governance and fiscal discipline, this decisive action serves as a powerful message—workers’ welfare is not just a priority but a cornerstone of development.
