The Ondo State Government has commenced the disbursement of over N2.6 billion in gratuities to retired local government and primary school workers who left service in 2015, as part of efforts to clear outstanding retirement benefits.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the development on Wednesday during the official launch of the payment exercise held at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Akure.
Represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, the governor said the payment reflected his administration’s commitment to the welfare of retirees and other vulnerable groups in the state.
Aiyedatiwa disclosed that the sum of N2.614 billion would be paid directly to beneficiaries under the fourth batch of gratuity disbursement for local government pensioners.
He noted that the government had earlier settled gratuity obligations owed to retirees from 2012, 2013 and 2014, adding that efforts were underway to clear all outstanding arrears before the end of his administration.
The governor attributed the release of the funds to prudent management of state resources and deliberate policies aimed at improving the welfare of workers and pensioners.
He urged beneficiaries to utilise the funds wisely, particularly in addressing health-related needs and improving their standard of living.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, said the administration had institutionalised a monthly funding arrangement dedicated to gratuity payments, describing the initiative as evidence of the government's resolve to meet its obligations to retirees.
Also speaking, the Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya, commended the governor for prioritising workers' welfare, noting that retirees had contributed significantly to the growth and development of the state during their years in service.
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 sustaining the payment of gratuities. He said the gesture had renewed confidence among retirees and acknowledged the prompt payment of monthly pensions under the current administration.
The event was attended by top government officials, labour leaders and other dignitaries, including the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Ayedun Odusola, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa.
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