The Ondo State Government has begun the disbursement of more than N2.6 billion in gratuities to retired local government and primary school workers who left service in 2015.
The government said the payment reflects its commitment to the welfare of both serving and retired workers across the state.
Speaking at the official launch of the payment exercise on Wednesday in Akure, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the release of the funds highlights his administration’s dedication to the well-being of senior citizens.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Aiyedatiwa stated that the move aligns with the goals of the administration’s ‘OUR EASE’ development agenda.
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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.”
The governor said the availability of the funds was made possible through careful planning, prudent financial management and the administration’s determination to prioritise the welfare of residents.
He urged beneficiaries to utilise the funds wisely, especially towards their healthcare needs and general well-being.
Aiyedatiwa 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 support and consistent advocacy on behalf of their members.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, disclosed that the governor had approved the monthly allocation of dedicated funds for the settlement of retirees’ gratuities, describing the initiative as evidence of the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners in the state, Johnson Osunyemi, thanked the governor for continuing the bulk payment of gratuities, noting that the initiative had renewed hope and confidence among pensioners.
He added that pensioners in the state have continued to receive their monthly pensions without delay since the current administration assumed office.