By Peter Omopo
Dutse, July 28, 2025
The Jigawa State and Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Board has disbursed over ₦1.5 billion in benefits to 569 retirees, signaling a significant commitment to the welfare of former public servants in the state.
The development was announced on Monday by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Binyaminu Shitu, during a press briefing held at the Pension House in Dutse, the state capital.
Dr. Shitu revealed that a total sum of ₦1,505,449,327.78 is being paid out to cover retirement benefits, death benefits, and death pension balances, ensuring comprehensive support for both living retirees and families of deceased workers.
He further broke down the disbursement as follows:
- ₦875,625,045.00 for 287 retirees from state service,
- ₦355,025,795.72 for 158 local government retirees, and
- ₦274,798,487.06 for 124 beneficiaries from Local Education Authorities (LEAs).
Reiterating the board’s commitment to prompt payments, Dr. Shitu stated that monthly pensions are consistently paid in the first week of each month. He praised Governor Umar Namadi for his unwavering support, which he said has helped sustain one of Nigeria’s most efficient pension systems.
“Our pension model has been widely recognized,” Shitu noted. “More than twenty states have visited Jigawa to study our framework and implementation process.”
He also encouraged retirees and active civil servants to continue supporting the government through prayers and trust in its mission to enhance workers’ post-service welfare.
The disbursement event was attended by key officials, including the State Head of Civil Service, Muhammad Dagaceri, alongside other dignitaries and stakeholders.
Several beneficiaries who spoke to The PUNCH expressed gratitude to the state government. Sabitu Umar described the payment as “a big relief,” while Abdullahi Musa commended the Pension Board’s efficiency. Muhammad Nuhu, another beneficiary, appealed to the government to maintain its commitment to regular disbursements.
The event was widely seen as a moment of relief and reassurance for retirees, reinforcing the state’s efforts to uphold dignity and security for its workforce in retirement.
