BREAKING: ONDO GOVERNMENT BEGINS N2.6 BILLION GRATUITY PAYMENT TO RETIRED WORKERS

ONDO GOVERNMENT BEGINS N2.6 BILLION GRATUITY PAYMENT TO RETIRED WORKERS

The Ondo State Government has commenced the payment of more than N2.6 billion in gratuities to retired local government and primary school workers who left service in 2015, as part of ongoing efforts to clear outstanding retirement benefits in the state.

The payment exercise, which marks the fourth batch of gratuity disbursement to local government pensioners, was officially flagged off on Wednesday at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, Akure.

Speaking during the event, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami, said the payment reflects the administration’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of workers and retirees in line with the state government’s OUR EASE development agenda.

According to the governor, the administration has already settled gratuity arrears owed to retirees who exited service in 2012, 2013, and 2014, adding that efforts are underway to ensure all outstanding gratuities are paid before the end of his tenure.

He disclosed that a total of N2,614,266,954.88 has been approved for direct payment into the bank accounts of beneficiaries captured under the 2015 retirees batch.

Aiyedatiwa said the release of the funds was made possible through careful financial planning, prudent management of state resources, and a deliberate commitment to improving the welfare of citizens, particularly senior citizens who had served the state during their active years.

He advised beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, especially towards healthcare, personal wellbeing, and other important needs.

The governor also commended leadership of labour and pension unions including the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) for their continued cooperation and advocacy for retirees’ welfare.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, revealed that the state government has introduced a system where special funds are set aside monthly specifically for gratuity payments.

He described the initiative as a strong demonstration of the administration’s resolve to ensure workers receive deserved benefits after retirement.

Also speaking, the Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya, praised the dedication and service record of workers in the state, noting that many retirees had contributed significantly to the development of Ondo State during their years in public service.

He commended the governor for sustaining policies that continue to support both active workers and retired civil servants.

On behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners in Ondo State, Mr Johnson Osunyemi, expressed appreciation to the government for maintaining the bulk payment of gratuities, describing the development as a major relief for pensioners across the state.

He further noted that pensioners in Ondo State have consistently received their monthly pensions promptly under the current administration.

Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Ayedun Odusola, Chief of Staff to the Governor Prince Segun Omojuwa, senior government officials, special advisers, and other stakeholders.