The Governor of Ondo State, Southwest Nigeria, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has flagged off the disbursement of ₦2.4 billion in gratuities to pensioners who retired from the Public service between 2018 and 2019.
The event, held in Akure, the state capital, marks a significant step towards clearing longstanding pension arrears and improving the welfare of retirees.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described the payment as a fulfilment of the government’s obligation to retired workers, many of whom had previously faced delays in receiving their entitlements.
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He noted that retirement should be a period of dignity, promising that his administration is committed to addressing outstanding pension liabilities within the shortest possible time.
The Governor added that plans are in place to clear the remaining arrears as resources permit.
According to the Permanent Secretary of the Pension Transitional Department, Peter Akingbade, “733 retirees would benefit from the exercise: 391 from 2018 and 342 from 2019, across the civil service, schools and parastatals.”
He added that gratuity payments are ongoing and urged unverified retirees to complete their documentation.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Johnson Osunyemi, described the development as a major relief for pensioners in the state.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Adeleye Adebanjo commended the government for the initiative.
Adebanjo urged the authorities to expedite action to ensure that arrears for all remaining retirees are paid without further delay.