Akure, Nigeria
Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ondo State Governor, has flagged off the disbursement of N1 billion gratuity of retired local government workers in the State.
Aiyedatiwa during the flag-off of the second batch of bulk payments of N1 billion of outstanding gratuities to local government retirees in Akure on Tuesday said his administration was reviewing the template to speed up the payment of backlog owed by the government.
According to him, the efforts were in line with his administration’s focus on promoting the welfare of retirees in the State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled previous payments made under his administration, noting the substantial relief provided to many retirees, adding that such regular payments will continue.
“Today is another landmark in our avowed commitment to the welfare of our people, including workers in Service and at retirement in the Sunshine State,” the governor said.
“In November 2023, the First Batch of this innovative bulk payment of outstanding gratuity of our former Local Government Staff and primary school teachers was carried out. In January 2024, another flag-off of payment of one billion and two hundred million naira (N1.2b) was also performed for the year 2014 pensioners of the State Civil Service.”
He stated that the current batch focuses directly on local government retirees from the year 2012.
He also said the government aims to settle remaining arrears from previous years, reiterating his administration’s dedication to the consistent and fair payment of pensions and gratuities.
Speaking on the concerns about the fairness of the process, Aiyedatiwa assured that the retires that the system put in place prioritizes equity, fairness, and transparency.
He urged those who were not included in this batch to remain hopeful as the administration continues its efforts to maximize the happiness and welfare of the greatest number of people.
Also speaking, Amidu Takuro, commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, in his welcome address, thanked the Governor for his prompt action, acknowledging that retirees have been facing hardship for many years.
Takuro disclosed that the governor had tasked him with saving funds specifically to pay pensioners and highlighted the gratitude retirees have expressed towards the governor for his compassion and dedication to their welfare.
The state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Johnson Osunyemi, who expressed his gratitude to the governor, noted that the payment is a significant relief for the retirees, as it had been long awaited. He assured the Governor of the retiree’s support in the forthcoming election.
