From Desmond Mgboh, Kano
The Kano State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the state government to ensure the payment of N75 billion in outstanding pension contributions by government institutions and entities. This outstanding sum, as of May 2023, poses a serious threat to the financial security of retirees in the state.
NLC Chairman Kabiru Inuwa, speaking at the Workers’ Day Celebration at Sani Abacha Stadium, stressed the urgency of resolving this issue. He noted that the non-payment has led to years of incomplete pension payments and urged the government to intervene to ensure the clearance of backlogs and the timely settlement of retirement and death benefits.
Inuwa also requested the revival of the state’s monthly cash award, which workers rely on to improve their living standards. He further emphasized the need for the implementation of Local Government autonomy and the reintroduction of institution-based vehicle loan disbursement.
Despite these concerns, the NLC Chairman acknowledged the government’s positive steps, including the timely payment of monthly salaries, full payment of pensions, reinstatement of previously dismissed workers, payment of retirement and death benefits amounting to N6 billion, promotion of workers, and sponsorship of workers for further studies at foreign universities.