Ondo State Government has started the disbursement of more than N2.6 billion in gratuities to retired local government and primary school employees who left service in 2015.
The state government said the payment reflects its commitment to improving the welfare of both active and retired workers across the state.
Speaking during the official launch of the payment exercise on Wednesday in Akure, the state capital, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa stated that the release of the funds demonstrates his administration’s steadfast dedication to the well-being of senior citizens in the state.
Represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, the governor noted that the initiative aligns with the objectives of his administration’s ‘OUR EASE’ development agenda.
He said, “Our administration has already cleared gratuity arrears for retirees from 2012, 2013 and 2014, and we are determined to pay all outstanding gratuities before the expiration of our tenure.
“A total sum of N2,614,266,954.88 will be paid directly into the accounts of beneficiaries in the 2015 batch.”
Aiyedatiwa said the release of the funds was made possible through careful planning, responsible financial management and his administration’s determination to place the welfare of the people at the forefront.
He urged the beneficiaries to put the money to good use, especially by investing in their healthcare and general well-being.
He also praised the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees and the Nigeria Union of Teachers for their collaboration and consistent advocacy for the interests of their members.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, disclosed that the governor had ordered that dedicated funds be reserved every month solely for the payment of retirees’ gratuities, describing the move as strong evidence of the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, the state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Mr Johnson Osunyemi, thanked the governor for maintaining the bulk payment of gratuities, noting that the gesture had renewed hope and confidence among pensioners in the state.
He also observed that pensioners across the state had continued to receive their monthly pensions without delay since the current administration assumed office.
