Yobe State Settles ₦15.4bn Backlog in Retiree Gratuities

The Yobe State Government has successfully cleared a long-standing backlog of gratuity payments for both state and local government retirees, totaling ₦15.4 billion. The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Wali, made the announcement during a press briefing in Damaturu, marking the six-year anniversary of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s administration.

​Baba Wali stated that the payments have effectively eliminated all accumulated liabilities, providing much-needed relief to thousands of retired public servants. He described the move as a fulfillment of the administration's commitment to workers' welfare, even in the face of significant economic challenges affecting subnational governments.

​Beyond the settlement of gratuities, the SSG highlighted the administration’s focus on the current civil service. Since 2019, the state has recruited nearly 6,500 new workers and organized training programs for over 6,300 personnel to ensure the state’s bureaucracy remains efficient and modernized.

​The briefing also touched on massive investments in the education sector, where over 26,000 teachers were retrained and 4,000 new staff members were recruited into primary and secondary schools. This was complemented by security investments, including the procurement of 250 operational vehicles and the engagement of 2,000 vigilantes to support formal security agencies.

The SSG concluded by stating that the Buni administration’s fiscal responsibility has allowed for balanced development across infrastructure, healthcare, and transportation. He reassured retirees and active workers alike that their welfare would continue to be a top priority as the government enters its next phase of service delivery.