Zamfara Pays February Salaries, Pensions Early Ahead of Ramadan

In a proactive measure to support public servants and retirees during the holy month of Ramadan, the Zamfara State Government has approved the early payment of February salaries and pensions, ensuring that all civil servants and pensioners receive their funds ahead of schedule.

The announcement came through the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Dantawasa, who directed the State Accountant-General to release the payments immediately. According to the commissioner, the decision is part of the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and retirees, allowing them to adequately prepare for Ramadan both financially and spiritually. Governor Dauda Lawal, in his statement, emphasized that the early disbursement is intended to ease the financial burden on citizens and encourage them to participate fully in Ramadan activities. He called on civil servants, pensioners, and the Muslim community to use the sacred period for prayers, particularly for peace, unity, and stability in Zamfara State, which continues to grapple with security challenges in various parts of the state. The early payment is in line with ongoing efforts by the Lawal administration to address salary and pension arrears, which have been a longstanding concern in the state. Over the past few years, the government has taken significant steps to clear backlog payments and gratuities, disbursing billions of naira to retirees and ensuring that civil servants are paid promptly. These efforts have been widely acknowledged as boosting morale and enhancing public confidence in the government’s management of resources. Experts say that early salary and pension payments during Ramadan are not only a financial relief but also a socio-economic strategy that promotes community welfare. Timely remuneration helps civil servants meet personal and household obligations, including purchasing essentials for Ramadan, supporting charitable activities, and participating in religious observances. The move also demonstrates a broader trend among Nigerian states to prioritize timely payment of salaries and pensions during major religious festivals, ensuring that public workers and retirees are not financially constrained during periods of spiritual significance. Governor Lawal reiterated that the administration remains committed to the welfare of civil servants and retirees, pledging continued efforts to review and improve the pension system, settle pending gratuities, and sustain timely payment of salaries. He urged citizens to remain hopeful and engaged in constructive dialogue with the government as it continues to implement policies that promote economic stability and social well-being.