Makinde: Champion of Workers’ Rights, Pensioners’ Relief By Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola, Member, GSM Advocate

In the landscape of Nigerian governance, few leaders have earned the unwavering admiration of the workforce and pensioners quite like His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, the Executive Governor of Oyo State. Fondly called the Workers’ Governor and affectionately referred to as the Beloved Son of Pensioners, Governor Makinde has become a symbol of responsive leadership and social justice in the Pace Setter State.

According to the Chairmen of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Oyo State, workers endured years of hardship before the emergence of Governor Makinde. They recounted the struggles of irregular salaries, unpaid allowances, and lack of governmental empathy. However, since assuming office, Engr. Seyi Makinde has reversed the tide, bringing relief and dignity back to the civil service.

In response to the current economic hardship affecting Nigerians, Governor Makinde has implemented several pro-worker policies that stand out even at the national level. These include:

Free Transit for Workers: Recognizing the burden of rising transportation costs, the governor introduced a free transit scheme for workers in the state. This single act has significantly eased commuting challenges for civil servants, improving both morale and productivity.

Palliative Wage Awards: To cushion the effects of inflation and economic difficulty, workers in Oyo State have been receiving palliative wage awards. These payments have provided essential relief for families struggling with rising living costs.

Implementation of N80,000 Minimum Wage: In a landmark move that sets a new standard across Nigeria, Governor Makinde commenced the payment of an increased minimum wage of Eighty Thousand Naira (₦80,000) to workers since January 2025. This visionary step underscores his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and economic empowerment.

The pensioners of Oyo State have also not been left behind. Baba Abatan, a respected elder and leader among pensioners, passionately eulogized Governor Makinde for his unprecedented efforts in addressing their long-neglected plights. Under his administration, pensioners have not only witnessed an increase in their monthly allowances but have also received full payment of all arrears owed by previous governments.

“As of April 2025, the Oyo State Pension Board has 22,212 pensioners on its payroll. To address outstanding arrears, Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration is committing N60 million monthly to pensioners. This administration prioritizes pensioners’ welfare, ensuring consistent disbursement of pensions on or before the 25th of each month, alongside timely salary payments for active workers.”

These remarkable achievements are a testament to Governor Seyi Makinde’s genuine compassion, visionary leadership, and dedication to building a better Oyo State. His administration has not only restored hope but has created a conducive environment where workers and retirees are valued and respected.

Indeed, His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE has redefined leadership in Oyo State, proving that governance can be humane, effective, and people-centered. His legacy will be remembered as one that prioritized the dignity of labor and upheld the welfare of every citizen.