Kano Governor Approves £10m To Clear Unpaid Gratuities, Bolstering Inclusive Governance.
In a landmark move underscoring his commitment to fairness and inclusive governance, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has approved N15.67 billion (£10 million) to settle outstanding severance allowances and gratuities owed to former local councillors. The debts, inherited from the previous All Progressives Congress (APC) administration under Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, had remained unpaid despite the availability of bailout funds during Ganduje’s tenure.
The former councillors, who served for eight years under the APC government, had been awaiting their entitlements for years. Political analysts suggest that the failure to address these payments, affecting over 3,000 grassroots leaders, contributed significantly to the APC’s defeat in the 2024 Kano gubernatorial election.
“This decision exemplifies politics without bitterness and reflects our administration’s dedication to justice, regardless of political affiliations,” a senior government official told reporters. The approval was among several resolutions passed during the 27th Executive Council Meeting, chaired by Governor Yusuf at the new Governor’s House in Kwankwasiyya City.
The payment forms part of a broader effort to clear over N40 billion in retirement and severance liabilities left by the previous administration. Since taking office, Governor Yusuf has already settled more than N20 billion of these debts within his first two years, earning widespread praise for his people-centred approach.
In the same meeting, the Kano State Executive Council also greenlit N51.57 billion for critical projects and programmes aimed at improving governance and enhancing the quality of life for Kano residents. These initiatives further cement Yusuf’s reputation as a leader focused on uplifting all citizens, irrespective of their political leanings.
Political observers and community leaders have hailed the governor’s actions as a model of responsive leadership. “Governor Yusuf’s commitment to fairness and unity is restoring trust in governance,” said a local councillor who benefited from the payout. His administration’s efforts continue to resonate strongly with workers and grassroots communities across Kano, bolstering his popularity as a unifying figure in Nigerian politics.
