By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
No fewer than 281 civil servants have exited service from Jigawa State and local government councils over the past six months, either due to retirement or other circumstances.
Reports indicated that 208 of the retirees were from the Jigawa State Government, while 73 were workers from local government councils who left service after reaching the mandatory 35 years in service or 60 years of age.
In response, the Jigawa State and Local Governments Contributory Pension Scheme Board has commenced the disbursement of N733,517,011.13 million as terminal and death benefits to these retirees and the families of deceased civil servants.
Speaking at the disbursement ceremony, held at the Jigawa State Pension Scheme Board headquarters in Dutse, the Executive Secretary of the board, Dr. Bilyaminu Shitu Aminu, outlined the payment breakdown, which includes gratuity, death benefits, and death pension balances.
According to Dr. Shitu, N542,017,148.60 million will be paid to 208 retired staff, while N144,159,513.19 million will be distributed to 47 relatives of deceased civil servants.
Additionally, 26 retirees who had begun receiving monthly pensions but passed away before completing the minimum five-year post-retirement period will receive a total of N47,340,349.34 million.
Dr. Shitu emphasized that Jigawa State has one of the best pension policies in the country, maintaining an up-to-date system in paying entitlements to retirees, including those who passed away in active service.
He also reaffirmed that the scheme is current with monthly allowance payments to all retired civil servants across the state.
“This significant milestone reflects the state government’s commitment to the welfare of its retirees and underscores the importance of ensuring financial security for those who have served the state,” Dr. Shitu stated.
The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the prompt disbursement, noting that the timely release of their benefits would help them meet their financial obligations and enhance their quality of life in retirement.
The Jigawa State and Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Board remains dedicated to ensuring timely and efficient management of pension funds and looks forward to introducing further innovations aimed at improving the welfare of pensioners.