The Ondo State Government has launched a physical verification and digital ID card issuance exercise for pensioners across its 18 local government areas.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the initiative, spearheaded by the Local Government Pension Transitional Department, was officially inaugurated in Igbara-Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area by Bola Taiwo, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties.
Taiwo explained that the exercise aims to streamline the disbursement of gratuities through regular and structured fund releases. He emphasized that the verification is not intended to intimidate or penalize pensioners, but rather to update the pension database, correct discrepancies, and enhance the accuracy of records.
READ ALSO: Chairman Molos Promises Solutions to Local Business Challenges
He acknowledged that the state currently lacks a precise count of its local government retirees, making proper planning difficult. Taiwo therefore urged pensioners to cooperate by providing their Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs), noting that the information would aid in ensuring timely and secure benefit payments.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Mercy Femi-Idris, Permanent Secretary of the department, highlighted that the digital ID cards will help verify the identity of pensioners, reducing the risk of fraud and identity theft. She noted that the initiative serves a dual purpose: verifying pensioners’ details and issuing identification cards for all retirees listed on the department’s payroll.
Femi-Idris commended the governor for ensuring regular pension payments and ongoing efforts to clear outstanding gratuities through scheduled fund releases, describing the initiative as a significant step toward supporting the welfare of senior citizens.
