Ondo State Begins Payment of N2.6 Billion in Retiree Gratuities

The Ondo State Government has officially commenced the disbursement of over N2.6 billion in outstanding gratuities to local government and primary school retirees who exited the service in 2015.

During the ceremonial launch of the payment exercise in Akure on Wednesday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, emphasized that the move is a core component of his administration’s development agenda. The governor noted that this initiative is part of a broader commitment to ensure the welfare of senior citizens across the state.

According to government figures, a total of N2,614,266,954.88 is being credited directly to the accounts of the 2015 beneficiary batch. The administration highlighted that it had previously cleared gratuity arrears for retirees from 2012, 2013, and 2014, and expressed a firm resolve to settle all remaining outstanding balances before the end of the current tenure.

Governor Aiyedatiwa attributed the successful release of these funds to prudent financial management and deliberate planning. He encouraged the retirees to invest the funds wisely, particularly in their health and personal well-being.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, added that the state has established a system to set aside special monthly funds specifically designated for the payment of pensions and gratuities.

Representatives from various labor unions, including the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, lauded the administration’s efforts. Johnson Osunyemi, the state chairman of the pensioners’ union, noted that the consistent and prompt payment of both gratuities and monthly pensions has significantly restored confidence and provided relief to retirees in the state.