In fulfilment of his promise to clear the backlog of pension and gratuity arrears inherited by his administration, The Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commenced the bulk payment of ₦2.396 billion gratuity arrears to 2016 and 2017 retirees in the state service today.
While speaking at the event held at the Governor’s office in Akure, Gov. Aiyedatiwa stated that the disbursement was not a coincidence but a product of consistent planning, to ensure every retiree receives their benefits in a fair and transparent manner.
He added, “This is a culmination of our administration’s sincerity of purpose and unwavering resolve to honour men and women who gave their strength, intellect and years of service to the development of Ondo State. This is not an act of favour; it is a moral and constitutional duty we hold dear”.
The Governor explained that his administration adopted the “year of exit” method as the sole criterion for gratuity qualification to eliminate bias and confusion in the process.
He recalled that since assuming office, he had released ₦180 million monthly to pay gratuity arrears while ensuring regular payment of pensions at both state and local government levels. In addition to this, the governor highlighted other welfare strides of his administration, including the payment of ₦2.236 billion to 2015 retirees; a ₦30,000 monthly allowance for pensioners as fuel subsidy support, among others.
While expressing appreciation to labour leaders, pension administrators and senior citizens for their patience and cooperation, Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed that his administration would remain people-oriented and responsive to the welfare of residents, especially during economic hardship, urging retirees to enrol in the Ondo State Health Insurance Scheme for accessible healthcare, stressing that “health is the foundation of happiness and longevity.”
While giving his address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Pension Transitional Department, Bunmi Alade, lauded the governor for prioritising retirees’ welfare despite numerous developmental projects, appreciating the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners for their cooperation and support throughout the exercise.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ondo State chapter, Comrade Johnson Osuyemi, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his consistent efforts in addressing the welfare and financial concerns of pensioners.
