Nigerian gov converts May salaries to soft loans, directs immediate June payment

In an effort to ease the financial burden civil servants may be facing after the recent Eid-el-Adha celebrations, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has approved the restructuring of May 2025 salaries into a soft loan, repayable over three months.

This move was disclosed in a statement released on Friday by the governor’s Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, who said the governor’s decision aimed to cushion the economic pressure frequently experienced by public workers during major religious holidays.

Aliyu noted, “I am aware that many of our workers are still facing financial challenges due to the expenses incurred during the Sallah festivities.

“This measure is intended to support them by easing immediate financial strain, allowing for repayment in three convenient monthly deductions.”

He expressed hope that the intervention would ease economic pressure and positively impact the well-being of government workers and their dependents.

Alongside the conversion, the governor ordered that June 2025 salaries be disbursed without delay to all categories of state employees, including workers under state and local governments, staff of the Local Government Education Authorities, and retirees. The payment is expected to begin on Monday, June 30.

Aliyu restated his administration’s resolve to reinvigorate the civil service for better efficiency, urging public servants to show appreciation by demonstrating greater commitment, punctuality, and discipline in their official responsibilities.

He also extended his gratitude to Sokoto residents for their unwavering support and pledged to continue delivering impactful governance.