The Ogun State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, on Sunday, praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for the approval and release of N6.7bn for the payment of the backlog of gratuities to pensioners in the state.
The chairman of the union, Waheed Oloyede, disclosed this in a statement released on Sunday.
Oloyede said that while N3.2bn is allocated for the retirees of the state government, the remaining N3.5bn is for retired local government workers.
He stated, “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 kindness and generosity you have shown towards us, the elderly.
“No doubt, the payment of the gratuities will bring great relief and comfort to many individuals and families.”
The union also took the opportunity to express its gratitude to the governor for the prompt and timely payment of monthly pensions, which has helped pensioners in planning for sustainable health services and other welfare packages.
Oloyede said, “We also express immense appreciation for the various palliatives and subsidies directed towards us pensioners in the recent past to cushion the effects of the present harsh economic realities.”
However, the union appealed to the governor to approve the long-awaited consequential increase in pensions, in line with the 2019 Federal Government circular on pension adjustments.
Oloyede noted that although Abiodun had set up a committee to look into the matter in July 2022, the adjustment had yet to be implemented.
He said the increase would further ease the economic pressure on pensioners as the prices of essential goods and medication continue to rise.
The union praised Abiodun’s leadership and urged him to remain committed to improving the lives of retirees and residents of the state.
