Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has paid N32 billion out of the N48 billion gratuity backlogs of retirees inherited in 2023.

Mr Yusuf disclosed this on Wednesday in Kano while inaugurating the sixth tranche of payments to retirees in the state.

The governor said the payments also covered death benefits inherited in 2023.

He explained that ₦27 billion had been paid in five tranches, while ₦5 billion was disbursed in the sixth tranche, bringing the total payments to ₦32 billion.

“As at May 2023, this administration inherited ₦48 billion gratuity backlogs.

“However, N27 billion in five tranches and the new ₦5 billion for the sixth tranche have been released.

“As we speak, my administration has released ₦32 billion to clear some backlogs, with ₦16 billion pending,” he said.

The governor promised to clear the outstanding gratuity backlogs as part of efforts to address long-standing liabilities and reposition the state for responsible governance.

According to him, the payments were made to reduce the hardship faced by retirees and families of deceased workers, restore confidence in government, and promote social justice.

He commended the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) for exercising patience and cooperation.

Abubakar Hussein, a pensioner who spoke on behalf of other pensioners, expressed appreciation to the governor for his kind gesture and canvassed continuous support for the Yusuf-led administration.