A’Ibom Pays N82bn To Settle Retirees’ Gratuities

The Akwa Ibom State Government has achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to worker welfare by disbursing approximately N82 billion for the payment of gratuities and other entitlements to retirees. Governor Umo Eno, who has prioritized the settlement of these legacy debts since assuming office, emphasized that the move is aimed at providing a dignified life for those who served the state meritoriously.

The payments cover various batches of retirees from the state civil service, local government service, and primary school teachers. According to official reports from the State Treasury, the disbursement process was streamlined to ensure that the funds reached the rightful beneficiaries directly, eliminating previous bureaucratic bottlenecks. This massive injection of funds into the local economy is expected to alleviate the financial hardships faced by many elderly citizens and their families.

Governor Eno stated that while the total debt inherited was substantial, his administration is determined to continue the phased payments until the backlog is completely cleared. "Our retirees are our fathers and mothers; they deserve their rewards here on earth for their years of selfless service to Akwa Ibom State," the Governor remarked during a recent stakeholders' engagement. 



Beneficiaries and labor union leaders have lauded the state government for its consistency in releasing the funds. They noted that the prompt payment of these entitlements has restored hope to many who had waited years for their benefits. As the state continues its developmental strides under the ARISE Agenda, the welfare of both active and retired civil servants remains a central pillar of the administration's social contract with the people.