By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Kano State Government has completed the payment of N15.67 billion in outstanding allowances to former local government councillors, settling a financial obligation that had lingered for over ten years.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf announced the conclusion of the process on Wednesday, fulfilling an earlier pledge to clear the backlog before the end of 2025. The final tranche of N8.26 billion was disbursed to 1,371 councillors who served between 2021 and 2024.
This payment marks the third and final phase of a settlement initiative begun earlier this year. In May, the state paid N1.8 billion to 903 former councillors from the 2014–2017 term. This was followed by a N5.6 billion payment to 1,198 councillors from the 2018–2020 batch in August. In total, more than 3,400 former council members have benefited.
Governor Yusuf described the exercise as a “restoration of dignity, trust, and justice.” He stated, “We are not just closing a ledger; we are opening a new chapter. Never again should those who serve the public be left in uncertainty about what is rightfully theirs.”
The governor also confirmed that current councillors, whose tenure began in 2024, have received 50% of their furniture allowance, totaling N1.27 billion.
He credited several agencies, including the Ministry for Local Government and the Office of the Accountant-General, for ensuring a transparent verification process in collaboration with the Former Councillors’ Forum.
To prevent a recurrence, Governor Yusuf announced ongoing institutional reforms such as digitalizing records and upgrading payroll management systems.
The announcement event was attended by former councillors, senior officials, and labour representatives. Many beneficiaries expressed relief, calling the payment long overdue but welcome.