BY
David.E
The Akwa Ibom State Government has paid over N60bn to settle inherited gratuities and arrears owed retired primary school teachers, the state Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, has disclosed.
Essien, who spoke during a media briefing in Uyo on Thursday, said the funds were part of a N90bn debt owed to retired teachers, inherited by the current administration.
He commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritising workers’ welfare since assuming office 23 months ago, saying the consistent release of funds showed a commitment to the well-being of both retired and serving civil servants.
The governor’s mindset is that such money is released back into circulation to support senior citizens who had committed decades in service to the state and its people,” Essien stated.
He also revealed that once the backlog is cleared, the state plans to commence immediate payment of gratuities upon retirement.
On the recent upward review of pensions, Essien stated that retirees from the year 2000 have received an additional N20,000, while those from 2011 were granted N15,000 more, adding that retired permanent secretaries now receive an increase of N500,000, emphasising that these interventions have acted as morale boosters for the state workforce.
Governor Umo Eno has proven that workers’ welfare is not just a campaign promise but a practical commitment.
The productivity index across ministries has significantly improved as a result,” he added.
Essien further disclosed that a staff verification exercise is ongoing at Akwa Ibom State University, aimed at integrating varsity workers into the state’s payroll system, making them eligible for welfare benefits.
On the implementation of the new N80,000 minimum wage, he confirmed that payments began in February 2025, with retroactive effect from November 2024. Out of 55,000 staff audited, 53,000 were verified for the new wage.
Addressing concerns around the 7.5 per cent contributory pension scheme, the HOS said the government has been releasing N500m monthly to offset outstanding contributions, with 15 Local Education Authorities already refunded.
The administration is steadily closing the gaps left by years of neglect. We’re not just playing catch-up; we’re building a sustainable structure,” he said.
