Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has approved the disbursement of N6.7 billion in gratuity payments to pensioners across the state, in a move aimed at reducing the backlog of accrued entitlements.
The development was disclosed in a letter co-signed by the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ogun State Council, Comrade Waheed Oloyede, and the Secretary, Bola Lawal.
According to the letter, the financial allocation includes N3.2 billion for state pensioners and N3.5 billion for local government pensioners.
The NUP described the gesture as a testament to Governor Abiodun’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, many of whom have waited years for their entitlements.
Expressing appreciation, Comrade Oloyede noted that the timely release of the gratuities would bring much-needed relief to retirees and their families, especially amid prevailing economic challenges.
He further lauded the governor’s consistent efforts toward pensioners’ welfare, including the prompt payment of monthly pensions and recent palliative measures designed to cushion the effects of the harsh economy.
The union also used the opportunity to appeal for a consequential increase in pensions, in line with the 2019 Federal Government Circular on pension adjustments. The appeal, they noted, would empower older pensioners to meet pressing health and living needs.
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The letter partly 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 (Six Billion, Seven Hundred Million Naira only) 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.”
“Your Excellency, this gesture demonstrates your commitment to the welfare of senior citizens whose entitlements have been denied over the years. We are deeply grateful for the milk of Godly kindness and generosity in you towards us, the elderly.”
“No doubt, the payment of the gratuities will bring great relief and succour to many individuals and families.”
“We also appreciate the prompt and timely payment of monthly pensions, which has helped us plan for sustainable healthcare services, as well as the palliatives and subsidies recently extended to us. These are not taken for granted.”
“Your Excellency, we seize this opportunity to passionately appeal for your benevolent approval of the long-awaited consequential increase in pensions, in line with the 2019 Federal Government Circular on the adjustment of pensions — a matter for which you set up a committee on July 19, 2022. This increase is vital to give elderly pensioners the financial strength to purchase needed medication and manage various health challenges.”
The union praised Governor Abiodun’s leadership and progressive vision for the state, expressing hope for continued collaboration with his administration toward the development of Ogun State.