As we welcome the new year, I am compelled to express my admiration for the exemplary leadership demonstrated by Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum. His recent approval of N8 billion to clear the backlog of liabilities in pensions and gratuities for retired primary school teachers and other civil servants is a testament to his commitment to the welfare of his citizens.
This gesture is not only a significant step towards settling the outstanding gratuities of retired civil servants but also a demonstration of Governor Zulum’s dedication to fulfilling his campaign promises.
His assurance to settle all outstanding gratuities and pensions before the end of his tenure in 2027 is a welcome development that should be emulated by other states.
I urge other state governments to take a cue from Governor Zulum’s leadership and prioritize the payment of gratuities and pensions to their retired civil servants. This is not only a moral obligation but also a necessary step towards promoting the welfare and dignity of those who have served their states and country.
Ibrahim Bukar Tijjani wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Borno State University, Maiduguri