The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the release of an additional ₦2.3 billion for the payment of gratuities, as part of efforts to offset a long-standing backlog inherited by his administration.
Announcing the development on his official Facebook page on Thursday, the governor said the latest disbursement brings the total amount paid so far to nearly ₦80 billion out of the ₦111 billion backlog of gratuities and other emoluments dating back to 2012.
“In keeping with my promise to clear the backlog of gratuities, I have approved the release of an additional ₦2.3 billion for payment,” Eno stated.
He explained that upon assumption of office in 2023, his administration inherited a backlog amounting to ₦111 billion, describing the settlement of retirees’ entitlements as a moral and social obligation.
“With this latest release, we have now paid nearly ₦80 billion out of the ₦111 billion backlog of gratuities and other emoluments dating back to 2012, which we inherited in 2023,” the governor said.
Eno assured retirees that his government would continue to reduce the outstanding balance in a steady and sustainable manner.
Beyond gratuity payments, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to social investment programmes targeted at vulnerable groups across the state.
He disclosed that 335 units have so far been completed under the ARISE Compassionate Homes initiative, with a target of 500 homes within his first term in office.
“Beyond gratuities, we remain committed to social investment. So far, 335 ARISE Compassionate Homes have been delivered, with a target of 500 in this first term,” he said.
The governor further highlighted ongoing welfare interventions under the ARISE Elderly Care Initiative, which provides monthly support to senior citizens across the wards, as well as the ARISE Medical Insurance Scheme, which currently covers over 10,000 vulnerable residents at no cost.
Reaffirming his administration’s development agenda, the governor said his government would continue to match words with action.
“We will keep walking the talk, building infrastructure, supporting our people, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
