Ekiti Governor , Oyebanji Doles out N650 Million for Pensioners’ Well-being
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has declared an unwavering commitment to alleviate the financial burden on pensioners by disbursing N650 million in gratuity cheques.
The governor assured retirees that efforts to clear the backlog of gratuities were in full swing, addressing their welfare needs with a substantial sum distributed during ceremonies at Jibowu Hall, Ado-Ekiti.
State pensioners received a significant boost with N500 million, while local government and primary school teachers shared a generous N150 million.
Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the challenges posed by subsidy removal on senior citizens and vowed to explore avenues to alleviate their economic hardships.
In a forward-looking approach, the governor hinted at considering monthly gratuity payments for pensioners and revealed ongoing efforts to finalize modalities for clearing all gratuity arrears. He emphasized a cautious approach to wage awards, assuring workers that sustainable solutions were being crafted to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal.
Governor Oyebanji called for patience from citizens, assuring them of comprehensive policies, interventions, and infrastructural development. He affirmed his dedication to addressing outstanding issues, including pension arrears and check-off dues, with a committee actively working towards a favorable resolution.
The head of service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe, praised the governor’s commitment to impactful programs and policies. Labour leaders, Kolapo Olatunde and Sola Adigun, acknowledged positive shifts in pension and gratuity payments under the present administration.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners expressed gratitude for the governor’s care and prompt payments, citing the appointment of a pensioner as a Special Adviser as a testament to their improved standing. Beneficiaries,r including Mrs. Christiana Ademulegun, Mr. Joseph Abiola, and Mrs. Janet Ogunlade, expressed heartfelt thanks to Governor Oyebanji for prioritizing pensioners’ welfare.
Since his emergence as governor of the state, pensioners now get their pensions and gratuity every three months, a sign of his deliberate commitment to the welfare of senior citizens of the state.
The event witnessed the presence of key figures, including Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Commissioner fort Finance Mr. Akintunde Oyebode, and Secretary to the State Government Dr. Habibat Adubiaro.
