Oyo Government Begins Disbursement of ₦3 Billion Gratuity to Over 1,000 Local Government Retirees

In a continued effort to clear the backlog of unpaid retirement benefits inherited from previous administrations, the Oyo State Government has commenced the payment of gratuity and death benefits to another batch of over 1,000 retirees, including retired primary school teachers and local government staff.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the Local Government Staff Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan, the Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige, described the exercise as proof of Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and dignity of senior citizens in the Pace Setter State.

Hon. Ige explained that the disbursement was made possible by the governor’s release of ₦3 billion to cover retirees across all geopolitical zones in the state.

He assured that with Governor Makinde’s consistent efforts to offset historical pension debts, no retiree will be left unpaid by the end of his tenure, paving the way for a seamless transition for future administrations.

Highlighting a major structural update, Hon. Ige noted that Governor Makinde’s recent approval of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) marks a historic milestone in the state’s pension administration.

He clarified that the existing Defined Benefits Scheme will run concurrently with the CPS throughout the transition period to safeguard the interests of both current workers and existing retirees.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Staff Pension Board, Mr. Olufemi Akinwale, commended the governor’s compassionate approach to governance.

He advised beneficiaries to manage their payouts prudently and remain vigilant against fraudsters seeking to deprive them of their hard-earned benefits.

Delivering a goodwill message, the Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, lauded the administration’s worker-friendly policies and urged the electorate to reciprocate the gesture by supporting the party’s candidates in the upcoming general elections.

The event featured the symbolic presentation of cheques to several beneficiaries. Expressing their gratitude, the retirees thanked Governor Makinde for prioritizing their welfare and pledged their continued support.

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