Listen to article
|
The Ondo State government has begun the third round of payments to settle outstanding gratuities, with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa leading the effort to clear the N3.2 billion debt and support retired workers.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has launched the third round of payments to settle outstanding gratuities, totaling N3.2 billion, with N2.2 billion going to state civil service retirees and N1 billion to their local government counterparts.
Governor Aiyedatiwa used the occasion of the presentation ceremony at the Cocoa Conference Hall to reiterate his administration’s commitment to supporting the state’s senior citizens, who have given their best years to serving the state with distinction.
He said, “Today is another landmark in our avowed commitment to the welfare of our people, including workers in service and retirees in the state.
“By this sure and steady mode of bulk payment, all retirees should be rest assured that sooner than later, the backlog of gratuities would be fully paid. We consider this a duty despite other pressing financial commitments of government and the limited resources available.”
Read also: Anambra State Next After Ondo State – APC
Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted that his administration had already made significant payments to retirees, including N1.2 billion in January 2024 and an additional N1.18 billion in incremental payments between January and June 2024 to support those facing financial difficulties.
Alhaji Amidu Takuro, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his sincere commitment to improving the lives of retirees in the state, expressing gratitude for his dedication to their well-being.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners in Ondo State, Johnson Osunyemi, gave kudos to the administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa for remembering the retirees.
Alhaji Takuro pointed out that the payment is a welcome reprieve for the retirees, who have been patiently waiting for this much-needed financial assistance.
He regretfully noted that the lengthy delays had resulted in the loss of many retirees, who sadly passed away before receiving their well-deserved benefits.