Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has authorized the immediate release of ₦3.8 billion to the state’s Pension Bureau for the payment of gratuities, death benefits, and accrued rights under the contributory pension scheme.

The move, announced on Monday in a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibraheem Musa, follows mounting appeals from pensioners and families of deceased civil servants concerned about the negative impact of the ongoing pensioners’ verification exercise on their well-being.

Musa explained that the verification exercise is part of efforts to eliminate ghost pensioners and ensure that limited resources are directed to genuine beneficiaries. However, Governor Sani directed that payments commence immediately, regardless of the ongoing audit.

“The governor remains fully committed to the welfare of our senior citizens,” the statement read. “He has emphasized that while the payroll cleanup is necessary, it must not deprive deserving retirees and families of their entitlements.”

Since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Sani has now disbursed a total of ₦6.6 billion to settle pension-related obligations, including gratuities and death benefits.

He expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of retired civil servants and assured continued support and seamless pension payments going forward.