Paragraph 1: Context and Announcement of Pensioner Verification Exercise
The Jigawa State Government has announced its intention to conduct a comprehensive verification exercise for all pensioners enrolled in the state’s Contributory Pension Scheme. This announcement was made during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Pension House in Dutse on Tuesday. The Head of the State Civil Service, Muhammad Dagaceri, disclosed that the verification exercise is scheduled to commence on Monday, May 5, 2025. This exercise is a crucial step towards ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the pensioners’ payroll system, which has seen minor irregularities develop over the past three years.
Paragraph 2: Scope and Objectives of the Verification Exercise
The verification exercise will encompass all pensioners across various sectors of the state’s public service, including Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Local Government Councils (LGCs), and Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs). The primary objective is to update the payroll system, address any existing discrepancies, and ensure that pensioners receive their correct entitlements. This initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to the welfare of its retirees and aligns with its broader agenda of good governance and accountability in the management of public funds.
Paragraph 3: Reassurance and Emphasis on Transparency
Dagaceri emphasized that the verification exercise is not intended to victimize or witch-hunt any pensioner. Instead, it is a proactive measure to ensure transparency and accountability in the pension payment process. The government recognizes the importance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date records to safeguard the financial well-being of its retirees. By conducting this exercise, the government aims to build trust and confidence among pensioners, assuring them of a fair and equitable system.
Paragraph 4: Importance of Participation and Cooperation
The State Accountant General, Abdullahi Shehu, highlighted the significance of the exercise in providing pensioners with an opportunity to update their information and rectify any missing details on their pay slips. He urged pensioners to actively participate in the exercise to ensure that their records are complete and accurate. This will streamline the payment process and prevent any future discrepancies.
Paragraph 5: Collaboration and Support from Stakeholders
The verification exercise has garnered widespread support from various stakeholders. The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Jigawa State chapter, pledged full cooperation from the 27 Local Government Council Chairmen. The Executive Secretary of the Scheme, Dr. Bilyaminu Shitu Aminu, encouraged pensioners to visit their respective local government secretariats for verification, emphasizing the benefits of accurate record-keeping.
Paragraph 6: Union’s Endorsement and Call for Participation
The Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Jigawa State Chapter, expressed its full support for the initiative and urged all pensioners to participate actively. Recognizing the importance of a transparent and efficient pension system, the union’s Chairman, Umar Babura, called for cooperation and collaboration between pensioners and the scheme’s administrators. This unified approach will ensure the success of the verification exercise and ultimately benefit all pensioners in Jigawa State.
