Niger spends N25bn to clear 21-year pension arrears

In a bid to cushion the effect of hardship in the state, the Niger State Government has disbursed N25 billion to clear 21 years of outstanding pensions and gratuities owed to retirees in the state.

Governor Umaru Bago, who made this known, explained that the payment underscores his administration’s dedication to the welfare of the state’s retired civil servants.

He further stated that the state government has also paid a N20,000 wage award to civil servants across the board for the second time in two months.

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This, he said, is in addition to addressing all outstanding leave grants that have been pending since 2018.

The Governor added that the move is a significant step towards alleviating the financial burden on retirees, some of whom have not received their pensions for over nine years, leading to a considerable backlog.

“The current administration is committed to ensuring that pension payments are made on time moving forward, to prevent similar situations in the future,” he noted.

The Governor thereby issued a stern warning against any attempts to alter the serial numbers and files of beneficiaries, stating that anyone found guilty of such actions will face severe consequences.

He added that the payment process is set to continue in batches, beginning with retirees from the local government areas.