Zamfara approvespension increase for state and local government retirees

The Zamfara State Government has approved an increase in pension payments for state and local government retirees, stating that the measure aims to improve senior citizens' welfare amid rising living costs.

The decision was announced in a statement signed on Tuesday by Commissioner for Information and Culture Mahmud Dantawasa.

The statement explained that the move follows recommendations submitted after a comprehensive review carried out by a special committee together with the Office of the Accountant General, which examined the situation of pensioners, especially those in the lower‑income bracket.

The review was prompted by current economic conditions that have rendered existing pension amounts insufficient for many retirees.

The exercise also aligns with a Federal Government circular on consequential adjustment arising from the implementation of the National Minimum Wage (Amended) Act 2024, which recommends a baseline increase of ₦32,000 per month for pensioners.

After assessing available resources, the state government approved what it described as a “100 per cent implementation option” for both state and local government pensioners.

“Following detailed deliberations and assessment of available resources, the Zamfara State Government approved the 100 per cent implementation option for both State and Local Government pensioners,” the statement said.

The adjustment is expected to benefit thousands of retirees across the state.

“Under the new arrangement, thousands of pensioners across the State and Local Government system are expected to benefit from the increase, which is aimed at cushioning the effects of rising living costs,” the statement added.

The government reiterated its commitment to pensioners’ welfare under Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration.

“The Zamfara State Government under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal, has approved the upward review of pension salaries for State and Local Government retirees across the state,” it said.

The statement noted that the administration will continue to prioritise social protection and economic stability.

“Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of workers and pensioners, noting that the government will continue to implement policies and programmes that promote social protection, economic stability, and improved living conditions for citizens,” it said.

All relevant agencies have been instructed to ensure the smooth implementation of the new pension structure.

“The government has directed all relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure the seamless implementation of the approved pension salary adjustment for timely payment to beneficiaries,” the statement added.

The policy is expected to improve the living conditions of retirees who have served the state over the years, while strengthening the broader welfare framework for vulnerable groups.