…moves to achieve zero gratuity liability by 2027
By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has approved the disbursement of ₦23.94 billion across multiple social intervention initiatives, including gratuity payments to retirees, school improvement grants, and scholarship allowances for students.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony at the Government House, Gombe, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Governor Yahaya described the event as “another major leap toward fulfilling our pledge of zero gratuity liability before leaving office in 2027.”
The Governor announced the payment of ₦8.2 billion to 3,204 state and local government retirees.
Out of the total amount, ₦6.6 billion will be paid to 2,142 state government retirees, while ₦1.6 billion will go to 1,062 local government retirees across the 11 local government areas.
According to him, the payments will be staggered based on the financial capacities of each council:
Funakaye, Kwami, and Nafada (2024 retirees)
Akko, Billiri, and Shongom (2018 retirees)
Dukku and Balanga (2017 retirees)
Gombe, Kaltungo, and Yamaltu-Deba (2016 retirees)
Governor Yahaya noted that with this latest round, gratuity payments under his administration have reached ₦33.826 billion since 2019.
“No administration in the history of Gombe State has shown comparable commitment to the welfare of retirees who served with hard work and dedication,” the governor declared.
He emphasized that the payments demonstrate his government’s financial discipline and sense of moral responsibility, ensuring that “no retiree who faithfully served Gombe State is left to suffer.”
₦13.5 Billion School Improvement Grant for 442 Secondary Schools
In a bid to strengthen the education sector, Governor Yahaya also announced the release of ₦13.5 billion under the World Bank–funded Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project as School Improvement Grants to 442 secondary schools across the state.
The funds, to be managed by School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs), will be used to improve infrastructure, supply learning materials, and enhance the overall quality of education.
“Our vision for Gombe extends beyond settling past obligations. We are building a prosperous future where every child can learn in a conducive environment and thrive,” the governor said.
₦726 Million Conditional Cash Transfer to 12,101 Beneficiaries
The governor further disclosed the disbursement of ₦726 million under the AGILE Conditional Cash Transfer/Scholarship Grant, benefiting 12,101 deserving students.
The initiative is designed to encourage school enrolment, ease financial pressure on families, and reduce dropout rates, especially among vulnerable groups.
₦1.5 Billion Scholarship for 18,750 Students
Governor Yahaya also confirmed the payment of ₦1.5 billion in scholarship allowances to 18,750 students of Gombe origin studying in various institutions of higher learning across the country.
This follows his earlier approval of a 100% increase in scholarship rates to support students in achieving academic excellence.
“This is our investment in the architects of tomorrow’s Gombe State,” he said, urging the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity.
Governor Yahaya: ‘We Are Bridging Generations Through Purposeful Governance’
Summing up the interventions, the governor said the combined initiatives represent ₦23.94 billion across 34,055 beneficiaries and 442 schools, describing them as a bridge between generations.
He commended retirees for their patience, encouraged students to prioritize their studies, and thanked labour unions, traditional rulers, and community leaders for their continued cooperation.
“Together, we are creating a prosperous future for Gombe State. Our commitment to responsible governance will always prioritise citizens’ welfare and youth development,” he affirmed.
