IBADAN/Nigeria: In a heartwarming gesture aimed at improving the lives of retired civil servants, the Oyo State government has disbursed gratuity cheques worth a total of N208 million to no fewer than 92 pensioners. This significant move carried out on Monday, stands as a testament to Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to fulfilling promises made to the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Oyo State Chapter.
Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, disclosed this development during an interactive session with the executives of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Oyo State Chapter. The occasion also marked the symbolic presentation of cheques to some of the retirees.
These beneficiaries encompass retirees from various sectors, including state employees, local government staff, and retired primary school workers. According to Hon. Adebisi, the selection process identified 92 retirees who were deemed eligible for the gratuity payment, and the release of their cheques has already commenced.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration and cooperation between the Nigerian Union of Pensioners and the Ministry of Establishments and Training, Hon. Adebisi emphasized that the state government is actively working on a pension review as directed by Governor Makinde. He emphasized the government’s preference for dialogue over industrial action to maintain a positive public image.
Adebisi underscored, “Dialogue can resolve more than 50 percent of any problem no matter how big.” He further assured that the Oyo State Government remains dedicated to the welfare and well-being of both civil servants and retirees.
In an expression of their unwavering support for the government, Comrade Olusegun Abatan, the State Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, recalled the pensioners’ collective demonstration of loyalty during the last gubernatorial election when they turned out in large numbers to vote for Governor Makinde. He expressed optimism that the 13-point agenda presented by the Union would see gradual implementation, especially given the ongoing scrutiny of the pension system.
Several beneficiaries of the gratuity payments conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde. They acknowledged the timing of the disbursements, which came during a period of economic hardship and recession, and offered prayers for the governor’s continued wisdom and success in steering the state forward.
