According to the Kano State Government, Abdullahi Ganduje, the state’s most recent governor, departed office with more than N500 billion in debt.
Abdussalam Gwarzo, the state’s deputy governor, made the assertion on Friday in Kaduna State while presiding over the New Nigeria People’s Party’s (NNPP) North-West Zonal meeting.
At the conclusion of the present verification procedure, he claims, the debt inherited by the current administration might exceed N500 billion.
Mr Gwarzo explained that the huge debt impeded the smooth take-off of the NNPP government in the state.
While pointing out the remarkable achievements accomplished by the Governor Abba Yusuf-led administration inception, Mr Gwarzo said: “We came into office inheriting a government that left us with nothing but debt. Initially, it was N300 billion, but now it is approaching N500 billion, and we are still counting.
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“Once we complete the assessment, we will inform Nigerians, especially our fellow Kano residents, about the total debt left behind.”
He also highlighted the efforts of the current administration in the state in managing the available resources judiciously.
Mr Gwarzo said: “Governor Yusuf ensured full payment of salaries to state workers and resolved outstanding issues and upon assuming office, he ordered the full payment of salaries which was not the case prior to our administration.
“Furthermore, due to Governor Kabir Yusuf’s compassion, starting this month, the state will be disbursing retirement gratuities, especially the death benefits to families of deceased retirees.
“The first beneficiaries will be those from levels one to six, as they are junior staff who have suffered the most. We have allocated N6 billion for this purpose.
“The screening process is underway, and by the end of this month, many people will receive their death benefits and gratuities.
“This initiative will continue, and our goal is to clear all outstanding gratuities within the next two years.”
