Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
In a landmark development for pensioners in Katsina State, Governor Dikko Umar Radda has approved and fully disbursed a staggering N23 billion in outstanding gratuities to retirees across state and local government levels. The revelation came during an exclusive interview with Katsina Times conducted by Muktar Ammani Aliyu, Secretary of the Katsina State Gratuity Verification Committee.
Aliyu, who serves under the leadership of Committee Chairman Dr. Farouk Aminu, disclosed that the committee was inaugurated in August 2023 following Governor Radda’s assessment of accumulated pension liabilities.
“When His Excellency assumed office in May 2023, he reviewed the outstanding gratuity debts and immediately constituted this committee to verify legitimate claims,” Aliyu stated.
Initial submissions from state and local pension boards indicated liabilities totaling approximately N23 billion, covering periods from 2019–2023 (local governments) and 2020–August 2023 (state). After rigorous verification, the committee confirmed N23 billion as the valid amount owed, which the governor subsequently approved for full payment.
“This is unprecedented. No previous administration in Katsina State has committed such a substantial sum to alleviate the plight of retirees,” Aliyu emphasized.
The committee’s work extended beyond paperwork, requiring physical verification of beneficiaries to ensure transparency. Aliyu shared poignant accounts of retirees who, after years of financial strain, could finally afford major life expenses.
“Many pensioners had been unable to fund their children’s weddings or build homes. With these payments, lives have been transformed,” he noted. Over 5,000 retirees have benefited so far, though the committee faced logistical challenges in verifying elderly claimants.
Ongoing Commitments and Future Plans
The committee is now reviewing new liabilities submitted for September 2023–December 2024. Aliyu assured that once verified, Governor Radda remains committed to settling all validated claims promptly.
“His Excellency has demonstrated exceptional political will. This intervention is a testament to his dedication to governance and welfare,” Aliyu remarked.
Public finance analysts have hailed the move as a benchmark for pension reform in Nigeria, where many states struggle with backlogged gratuities. The transparent verification process and full disbursement set a rare precedent in subnational fiscal responsibility.
As Katsina retirees celebrate long-awaited relief, observers urge other governors to emulate Governor Radda’s approach in addressing pension liabilities—a critical yet often neglected aspect of governance.
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