The Ondo State Government has commenced the payment of ₦2.39 billion in gratuities to civil servants who retired between 2016 and 2017.
Speaking at the official flag-off of the disbursement on Monday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described retirement as a period of dignity and reward, not an end to service. He noted that a similar payment exercise had earlier been conducted for local government retirees and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that retirees receive their entitlements promptly, fairly, and transparently.
Aiyedatiwa highlighted that since assuming office, his government has prioritized the welfare of pensioners and senior citizens.
“We have consistently released ₦180 million monthly to offset outstanding gratuities, helping retirees meet essential needs, particularly medical and personal expenses,” he stated.
He explained that the current payment followed a transparent and structured process anchored on the year of exit from service, ensuring equity and clarity in the disbursement.
Reiterating his administration’s dedication to fairness and accountability, the governor said,
“We will continue to clear all outstanding gratuity arrears. Our retirees deserve compassion, respect, and timely payment for their years of dedicated service. This is not a privilege but a moral and constitutional duty we are committed to fulfilling.”
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Pension Transitional Department, Olubunmi Alade, commended the governor for his commitment to the welfare of pensioners, noting that this was the first time in Ondo State’s history that gratuities for two consecutive years were being paid at once.
Also, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ondo State Council, Johnson Osunyemi, expressed gratitude to the governor on behalf of retirees for sustaining their hope and prioritizing their well-being.
