Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has assured that outstanding pensions and gratuities for retired civil servants accrued between 2023 and 2025 will be fully cleared by the end of January 2026.
The announcement was made in a press statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Kula, in Makurdi.
Alia emphasized that his administration has consistently prioritized the welfare of civil servants, ensuring regular payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities since he assumed office.
He stated that while priority was initially given to approved arrears, steps are now being taken to ensure all retirees within his tenure receive their entitlements promptly.
“For those within the last two and a half years who have not received their gratuities, they will receive them in a matter of days,” he said, adding that other pension and salary arrears will continue to be settled based on available funds.
The governor also addressed the ongoing national strike by resident doctors, urging dialogue and negotiation.
He acknowledged that some grievances may stem from unfulfilled commitments by previous administrations but stressed the humanitarian risks posed by disruptions in medical services.
Alia commended health workers for their dedication and expressed confidence that the strike would soon be resolved, noting the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to address the issues.
