Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has approved ₦3 billion for the payment of pensions and gratuities to retired workers, in a move aimed at clearing years of outstanding entitlements and improving the welfare of pensioners across the state.
The Chairman of the Local Government Pension Board, Dr. Nuhu Tari, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Yola. He said the approval formed part of the state government’s broader effort to settle pension liabilities dating back to 2009 and ensure retirees receive their benefits without unnecessary delays.
Tari stated that the board remained committed to clearing all outstanding payments following the release of funds by the state government.
According to him, the board inherited a significant backlog of unpaid pensions and gratuities when he assumed office in 2024, with many retirees having waited several years to access their entitlements.
“Payment of pension and gratuity now is automatic, unlike in the past when retirees had to wait for months before being enrolled into the pension scheme,” Tari said.
He explained that Gov. Fintiri had directed that pension enrolment and payments should commence immediately after retirement, adding that the release of funds was intended to support the seamless implementation of the policy.
“The governor gave the order that payment and enrolment of pensioners should be automatic. Hence, the funds were made available,” he stated.
Tari also revealed that the state government had established a committee to oversee the payment process and ensure that all outstanding arrears were fully settled.
He, however, acknowledged that disparities in the number of retirees across local government areas continued to pose operational challenges, slowing payments in some councils more than others.
Addressing allegations that the board was favouring certain pensioners, Tari dismissed the claims, insisting that management was working diligently to ensure that all eligible retirees received their payments as quickly as possible.
The chairman further accused some individuals of attempting to pressure the board emotionally by bringing sick elderly parents to demand immediate payment.
“Some individuals are fond of bringing their sick parents to the board to arm-twist us into paying them. That’s emotional blackmail,” he said.
“If your parents cannot come to the board because of health challenges, take them to the hospital,” Tari added.
