Jigawa Defrays Over N1.5 Billion Benefits Owed 569 Retirees

The Jigawa State and Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Board has disbursed over N1.5 billion to 569 retirees as part of efforts to ensure the financial security and welfare of former civil servants in the state.

This was revealed by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Binyaminu Shitu, during a press briefing held on Monday at the Pension House in Dutse, the state capital. Dr. Shitu stated that a total sum of N1,505,449,327.78 has been earmarked for disbursement to the beneficiaries.

He explained that the amount covers various categories of entitlements, including retirement benefits, death benefits, and death pension balances, aimed at providing comprehensive support to the recipients.

Dr. Shitu highlighted that the beneficiaries include retirees from the state service, local governments, and the Local Education Authorities. He said the disbursement is distributed with N875,625,045.00 allocated to retirees from the state service, N355,025,795.72 to those from local governments, and N274,798,487.06 to retirees from the Local Education Authorities.

He reiterated the Board’s commitment to ensuring prompt payment of entitlements, emphasizing that the monthly pension is regularly paid in the first week of every month. According to him, the Jigawa State Government under Governor Umar Namadi has remained consistent in its dedication to enhancing the welfare of both active and retired workers, thereby guaranteeing them a life of dignity and comfort after years of meritorious service.

Dr. Shitu also noted that Jigawa’s contributory pension model has become a benchmark in Nigeria, with over twenty states having visited to understudy its structure and implementation. He commended Governor Namadi for his continuous support and for strengthening the scheme since the inception of his administration.

The Executive Secretary further encouraged both retirees and serving civil servants to keep supporting the government through prayers and constructive engagement, acknowledging the developmental strides made by the present administration.

The event was attended by key government officials, including the State Head of the Civil Service, Muhammad Dagaceri, among other dignitaries.