April 19, (THEWILL) – Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved the disbursement of N6.7 billion for the payment of gratuities to pensioners across the state in a move aimed at reducing the backlog of accrued entitlements.
This was disclosed in a letter co-signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ogun State Council, Comrade Waheed Oloyede and Bola Lawal, respectively.
According to the breakdown, N3.2 billion has been allocated for state pensioners, while N3.5 billion is earmarked for local government pensioners.
Describing the approval as a testament to Governor Abiodun’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, Oloyede noted that the timely payment would bring significant relief to retirees and their families, especially amid the current harsh economic realities.
He also acknowledged the governor’s consistent efforts, including the prompt and regular payment of monthly pensions and the provision of palliatives aimed at cushioning the financial burden on pensioners.
The union, however, appealed to the governor to approve a consequential increase in pensions in line with the 2019 Federal Government circular on consequential adjustments, saying the move would further ease the financial pressure on elderly retirees, particularly in meeting their health needs.
In the letter, the pensioners expressed deep appreciation for the governor’s “Godly kindness and generosity” towards the elderly.
Part of the letter read, “The Chairman, Comrade (Chief) W.O. Oloyede, the Executive Council, and the entire membership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Ogun State Council, hereby express heartfelt appreciation to our loving and compassionate Pensioners-friendly Executive Governor, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, for the approval and release of a total sum of N6.7 billion to Ogun State Pensioners (State and Local Government: N3.2 billion to State Pensioners and N3.5 billion to Local Government Pensioners), thereby further reducing the backlog of accrued gratuities.
“This gesture demonstrates your commitment to the welfare of senior citizens whose entitlements have been denied over the years. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and generosity towards the elderly.”
The union added that the payment of gratuities would bring much-needed succor to families and praised the prompt payment of monthly pensions, which has supported retirees in maintaining sustainable healthcare.
They also appreciated the governor for the various palliatives and subsidies provided to cushion the impact of the prevailing economic hardship, noting that the gestures were not taken for granted.
Reiterating their appeal for a consequential pension increase, the pensioners stated, “We humbly appeal for your benevolent approval of the much-awaited consequential increase in pensions for long-standing pensioners, in line with the 2019 Federal Government Circular on consequential adjustment of pensions. This will empower most pensioners to afford necessary medications for various health challenges affecting the elderly.”
The union concluded by commending Governor Abiodun’s leadership and progressive vision for the state, pledging continued collaboration to achieve further development and progress in Ogun State.
