By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Chairman of the Sokoto State Committee on Gratuity Payments, Alhaji Umar B. Ahmad Tambuwal, has reassured retirees that all legitimate beneficiaries will receive their payments promptly following the completion of the screening process.
Speaking in response to complaints from some retirees who reported delays in receiving payment alerts, Alhaji Umar Tambuwal, who also serves as the State Accountant General, explained that funds are released immediately after the screening process. However, he acknowledged that some beneficiaries, particularly those residing in remote areas, might receive their payment alerts while traveling back home.
He attributed the delays reported by some beneficiaries to technical challenges within financial institutions, emphasizing that the committee is working closely with the affected banks to resolve these issues and ensure prompt disbursement.
Government’s Commitment to Settling Backlogs
Tambuwal assured retirees that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration remains fully committed to clearing the backlog of gratuities owed to civil servants. He urged beneficiaries to remain patient as the committee works diligently to address any challenges.
Ministry of Finance Sheds Light on Payment Issues
Further clarifying the situation, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Finance, Sirajo Ibrahim, quoted the Deputy Accountant General, Malam Junaidu Usman Junaidu, who explained that some delays stemmed from retirees having limited or inactive bank accounts. He emphasized the importance of upgrading such accounts to facilitate smooth transactions.
Malam Junaidu, who also serves as the Secretary of the Gratuity Payment Committee, noted that after the screening process, payments are sent to the headquarters of the respective banks for further processing. This procedure typically takes four to five days before payments are credited to beneficiaries’ accounts.
He advised retirees who do not receive their payments within this period to visit the dedicated desk office established by the Ministry of Finance to lodge their complaints for immediate resolution.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring transparency and efficiency in the payment process, assuring all retired civil servants of the government’s dedication to their welfare.
