Gov. Alia To Clear Outstanding Pensions, Gratuities Within 3 Weeks
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged to pay all outstanding arrears of pensions and gratuities within the next three weeks.
He said that the outstanding entitlement of the pensioners that accrued within the last two and a half years will be paid before the end of January 2026.
Gov. Alia gave the assurance while speaking with journalists after the interdenominational church service held to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, in Makurdi.
He said his administration has treated the welfare of civil servants with utmost seriousness, stressing that salaries, pensions and gratuities have been paid consistently since he assumed office.
“We’ve been paying gratuities because I’ve taken the welfare of my staff and all civil servants very seriously. In the last two and a half years, I have never missed the payment of salaries and pensions, including gratuities,” he said.
He explained that while priority was initially given to clearing approved arrears, deliberate steps are now being taken to ensure that all retirees within the period of his administration receive their entitlements.
“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. All gratuities within this period will be paid,” he assured.
He said that the payment of other outstanding pension and salary arrears would continue based on available financial inflow, adding that his government is determined to maintain a healthy financial flow while meeting its obligations to workers.
“I have no reason not to pay civil servants. They work for the state, and this is the only livelihood they know. That is why we do this very deliberately and diligently.”
On the nationwide strike threat by resident doctors, the governor said dialogue and negotiation are the best path to resolving labour disputes.
He acknowledged that there may be genuine reasons for the agitation, including outstanding commitments by previous administrations, which he said must be honoured, as government is a continuum.
Gov. Alia expressed confidence that resident doctors in Benue State would not have joined the strike but for its nationwide nature, noting that the disruption of medical services poses grave risks to families and communities.
“When you lose one person in the state, it is one too many. It haunts you,” he said, appealing to the striking doctors to reflect on the humanitarian consequences of their action.
Describing medical practice as a special vocation, the governor commended doctors and other health workers for their dedication and sacrifice, but called for a reconsideration of the strike option to save lives.
He expressed optimism that the impasse would soon be resolved, disclosing that the Federal Government is working round the clock to address the issues raised by the resident doctors.
