…to Settle Gratuity Arrears and Execute Priority Projects

In a commendable show of commitment to the welfare of retirees and the broader community, local government chairmen in Kwara State have pledged to use their recently received N7.43 billion ‘signature bonus’ from the Federation Account to settle gratuity arrears dating back to 2011 and fund essential projects across the state.

Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Danladi, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kwara State chapter, announced on Wednesday that N4 billion of the ‘signature bonus’ would be allocated towards clearing part of the outstanding gratuity arrears, which exceed N34 billion. This effort will provide much-needed relief to local government retirees who have been awaiting their entitlements for over a decade.

“This payment will cover the 2011 gratuity obligations and more. The disbursement will be managed to ensure that all retirees with outstanding gratuities receive their share,” Hon. Danladi affirmed.

Additionally, the remaining N3.36 billion will be invested in priority projects identified by each local government. These projects are expected to address pressing needs at the grassroots level, improving the quality of life for residents and fostering development within the communities.

“This decision underscores our dedication to serving the grassroots, including our retirees who have dedicated their lives to the service of their local government areas,” Danladi stated, emphasizing the unanimous agreement reached during their recent meeting.

This strategic allocation not only addresses long-standing financial obligations to retirees but also ensures that the local governments can continue to implement critical development projects that benefit the wider community.