Kano govt flags off final gratuity payment of N8bn to 1,371 ex-councillors

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has flagged off the final tranche of severance gratuity, accommodation and leave allowances for 1,371 former local government councillors who served between 2021 and 2024, bringing to an end all outstanding financial liabilities owed to them by the state government.

The payment which was presided over by the Governor, was held at the Coronation Hall of the Government House in Kano, on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Governor Yusuf recalled that during an earlier phase of the disbursement, he had promised that the final tranche would be paid before the end of 2025.

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He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to fulfil that pledge, describing the completion of the exercise as a major milestone for his administration.

The governor disclosed that over ₦8 billion was released in the final tranche, bringing the total amount paid to the former councillors to more than ₦15 billion, noting that the payment underscored his administration’s commitment to social justice, fairness and the welfare of citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.

Governor Yusuf said his government had consistently pursued people-oriented policies to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots. He described the payment of gratuities and allowances as a means of honouring public service and boosting the morale of those currently serving in various capacities across the state.

He commended the former councillors for their contributions to grassroots governance and thanked them for their patience while awaiting the settlement of their entitlements. The governor also appreciated public servants and relevant officials for their cooperation in ensuring the successful completion of the exercise.

In her remarks, Saadatu Yusha’u, Chairperson of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano State, described the settlement as a clear demonstration of the Abba Kabir Yusuf-led administration’s commitment to fulfilling its campaign promises.

The event was attended by top government officials, senior civil servants and representatives of the beneficiaries, who praised the administration for prioritising the welfare of public office holders and fulfilling its commitments.

The ceremony attracted the presence of, Sani Gombe, national secretary of the National Association of Councillors’ Forum, and Munir Sanusi, Galadima Kano, who represented the Kano State Emir Council.