In a significant affirmation of his administration’s commitment to social justice and workers’ welfare, the Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, has received leaders of organised labour and pensioners’ unions on an appreciation visit following the payment of N45bn in accumulated pension arrears inherited from previous administrations.
The delegation, made up of leaders of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Katsina State Chapter, commended Governor Radda for what they described as a historic and compassionate intervention that has restored dignity, hope, and financial stability to thousands of retirees across the state.
During the visit, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Katsina State Chapter, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for prioritising the welfare of pensioners despite prevailing economic challenges. He noted that many retirees had waited for years to receive their entitlements and were subjected to severe hardship. According to him, the payment of N45bn in pension arrears is unprecedented in the history of Katsina State and reflects a humane, people-centred approach to governance.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Katsina State Chapter, described the Governor’s action as a clear demonstration of strong political will, fiscal discipline, and responsible leadership. He stated that settling such a huge pension backlog at a time of economic constraints underscores the administration’s sincerity and commitment to workers and pensioners. On behalf of organised labour in the state, he conveyed appreciation to the Governor for keeping faith with the workforce.
The labour leaders noted that the intervention has significantly improved the welfare of pensioners, enhanced access to healthcare, reduced poverty among retirees, and strengthened trust and confidence in government. They pledged continued cooperation with the Radda administration in sustaining industrial harmony and supporting policies that promote inclusive development.
In his response, Governor Radda reaffirmed that the welfare of pensioners and workers remains a moral and constitutional responsibility of government. He stressed that retirees who devoted their productive years to public service deserve dignity, security, and timely payment of their entitlements. He explained that while clearing the pension backlog required difficult financial decisions, the administration considered it a necessary step toward justice and good governance.
The Governor further assured labour unions of his administration’s commitment to strengthening pension administration, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the pension system, and preventing the accumulation of future arrears through prudent financial management and institutional reforms.
