Gombe introduces biometric register for civil servants, uncovers 523 ghost workers

The Gombe government says it has uncovered 523 ghost workers since the introduction of the biometric verification register for civil servants in the state.

Inuwa Yahaya, governor of Gombe, spoke on Thursday during the induction of the newly recruited biometric supervisors in the state.

Yahaya,  who was represented by Manassah Jatau, his deputy, said the biometric verification which started three years ago has uncovered nonexistent workers and saved the state N1.5 billion.

The governor said the state deployed 4,000 biometric machines attendance register across all areas which helped in uncovering the ghost workers.

“So far this novel initiative has saved government a monthly sum of N23,758,858 since 2021,” NAN quoted Inuwa as saying.

“Drawn the recognition and support of international organisations, for example, the World Bank, Development Partners like the Global Alliance for Vaccination and Immunization (GAVI) which saw this as a model to be emulated by others.”

The governor said the situation has affected the social and economic development projects in the state.

Also speaking, Muhammad Magaji, commissioner for finance, said the state gained four million dollars in its  fiscal transparency, accountability and sustainability (SFTAS) programme.

Magaji said the amount realised is a great investment for the current administration and its commitment to improving the welfare of the people.

“Over 500 workers who do not contribute to productivity in Gombe state have been uncovered, saving about N24 million monthly with a cumulative saving of over N1 billion,” he said.

“The money earned through this exercise does not come to government rather channelled to payment of promotion arrears and outstanding gratuities.

“It cleared insinuations that government was trying to reduce funds by taking workers out of the payroll.”

He said Gombe is among the best states in terms of payroll management, adding that about 305 youths were recruited as part of the gains of the financial management reforms.

The commissioner urged the supervisors to act professionally, warning that “if you are caught doing anything otherwise, I assure you that we will replace you”.

“Know that the responsibilities placed on you is very critical and we will not accept indolence and corrupt practices,” he added.