Akure, Ondo State – In a significant move to address the long-standing issue of unpaid gratuities, the Ondo State Government on Friday commenced the disbursement of ₦3.2 billion in outstanding payments to pensioners across the state. The initiative, which took place in Akure, was overseen by State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who emphasized the importance of this action in restoring hope to retirees who have been waiting years for their entitlements.

Governor Aiyedatiwa announced that the ₦3.2 billion would settle the total gratuity owed to state retirees since 2015. Of this amount, ₦1 billion is earmarked for local government retirees, specifically covering the gratuity for those who retired in 2012 and 2013. The remaining ₦2.2 billion is allocated to clear the 2015 gratuity for state pensioners.

“Our well-conceived approach to gratuity payment aims to tackle the significant arrears that have, more or less, led our esteemed retirees to lose hope,” Aiyedatiwa stated. “Through this assured and steady method of bulk payment, all retirees can be confident that, sooner rather than later, the backlog of gratuities will be fully settled.”

The governor acknowledged the financial challenges facing the state but underscored his administration’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations to pensioners. He assured that the government would continue to invest in essential infrastructure for the people of Ondo State while also addressing pension arrears as resources permit.

“As our finances improve, further special interventions will be made to gradually address the backlog of arrears for subsequent years, God willing. I therefore appeal to other retirees who have yet to receive their payments to be patient with the government, as they will be attended to as soon as possible,” Aiyedatiwa added.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Amidu Takuro, praised the governor for his decisive action in settling the outstanding gratuities. Takuro highlighted the hardships that many retirees have faced and expressed gratitude for the governor’s concern for their welfare.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners in the state, Mr. Johnson Osunyemi, also commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for addressing the lingering issue. He noted that the payment marks a significant step forward in ensuring that pensioners receive what is rightfully theirs.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Adedayo Ajayi, expressed his appreciation, stating, “This payment brings great relief to many of us who have been waiting for years. We thank the governor for finally settling the outstanding gratuity.”

This initiative is seen as a crucial step in restoring confidence among retirees in the state, as the government works to clear the backlog of arrears and improve the lives of its pensioners.