- Payment Marks 4th Batch of Disbursement to LG Pensioners
In fulfilment of its commitment to the welfare of serving and retired workers, the Ondo state government has commenced the payment of over N2.6 billion in gratuities to retired local government and primary school workers who exited service in 2015.
Speaking at the ceremonial flag-off of the payment exercise held on Wednesday at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Akure, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the release of the funds underscores his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of senior citizens in the state, in line with the objectives of the OUR EASE development agenda.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor disclosed that his administration had already cleared gratuity arrears for retirees from 2012, 2013 and 2014, reaffirming the government’s determination to pay all outstanding gratuities before the expiration of his tenure.
A statement by the Deputy Governor’s spokesman, John Akinduro, quoted the governor saying that a total sum of N2,614,266,954.88 will be paid directly into the accounts of beneficiaries in the 2015 batch.
Aiyedatiwa attributed the successful release of the funds to deliberate planning, prudent financial management and his administration’s resolve to prioritise the welfare of the people.
He urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the money, particularly by investing in their health and overall wellbeing.
The governor also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) for their cooperation and continued advocacy for the welfare of their members.
Earlier, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, said the governor had directed that special funds be set aside monthly specifically for the payment of retirees’ gratuities, a move he described as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
In his remarks, the Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya, described Ondo state’s workforce as dedicated and productive, noting that many retirees had served the state with diligence and distinction.
He thanked the governor for creating an enabling environment that supports workers and retirees alike.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Mr. Johnson Osunyemi, expressed appreciation to the governor for sustaining the bulk payment of gratuities, saying the gesture had restored hope and confidence among pensioners in the state.
He further noted that pensioners in Ondo state have continued to receive their monthly pensions promptly since the inception of the present administration.
Dignitaries at the event included the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Ayedun Odusola; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Special Advisers, senior government officials and other notable personalities.
