LAST Monday, the Ondo State Government disbursed ₦1.6 billion gratuities to pensioners who retired from the local government councils and primary schools in 2014. This payment adds to the over ₦12billion previously paid in quick succession to beneficiaries who had retired more than ten years ago.
GOVERNOR Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the development as part of his administration’s ongoing bulk gratuity payment initiative. According to him, the initiative, which he introduced while serving as the Deputy Governor, aims to clear the backlog of unpaid entitlements and restore confidence among retirees.
THE Governor explained that the disbursement was part of a structured payment process introduced by his administration, which uses the year of exit from public service as the sole criterion for eligibility to ensure fairness, transparency and predictability in the distribution of funds.
AIYEDATIWA noted that the bulk payments made to retirees from the 2011, 2012 and 2013 sets under his administration were unprecedented in the state’s history, assuring that retirees from 2015 will soon receive their gratuities.
THE payment of ₦13.6 billion to the 2010 to 2014 set of pensioners highlights the administration’s commitment to the welfare of the elderly and6 vulnerable members of society, in line with its policy objectives. The Governor emphasised that the payment would rekindle hope among pensioners and reassure current civil servants that their gratuities will be promptly settled upon retirement.
THE Governor’s actions have been widely commended as a bold step in prioritising the welfare of senior citizens, particularly at a time when the plight of pensioners often goes unnoticed. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership sets a commendable example of compassion and responsibility, reaffirming his commitment to the well-being of the state’s pensioners, especially those who served in local government councils and primary schools.
The timely release of these funds underscores the Governor’s consistent approach to pension management, which he championed even as Deputy Governor. What makes this payment particularly significant is that it does not just address a financial backlog but fulfills a moral obligation in a transparent and predictable manner. The structured payment process ensures fairness, as it is based solely on the year of retirement, leaving no retiree behind, regardless of their background or status.
THESE payments represent more than just financial transactions; they are moral and constitutional duties being fulfilled. While some may view the prompt settlement of pension entitlements as routine governance, the Governor rightly pointed out that the historic underpayment of pensions in Nigeria makes such actions discouraging. In the past, many retirees received only a fraction of their rightful dues or none at all. But Aiyedatiwa’s administration has changed the narrative, not only by ensuring full payments but also by instituting a flat-rate increase in pension allowances to help retirees cope with the effects of global economic downturns.
THE social impact of this initiative cannot be overstated. Beyond financial relief, the payment of gratuities offers hope to both retirees and those still in service. As Aiyedatiwa stated, these actions should not be celebrated as achievements but as basic responsibilities of governance. In a state where pensioners were once left in limbo, the timely disbursement of these funds is a vital lifeline that reaffirms the dignity of the elderly.
IN addition to pension payments, the Aiyedatiwa administration has shown compassion in other ways. He recently announced that the next of kin of three local government workers who tragically lost their lives in a motor accident would receive cheques for their terminal benefits. This act is yet another example of his administration’s holistic approach to welfare, ensuring that the families of those who served the state are not left unsupported.
WHAT stands out in this development is not just the financial aid provided, but the philosophy behind it. The state’s pension savings initiative, introduced during Aiyedatiwa’s tenure as Deputy Governor, ensures the regular allocation of funds for gratuity payments, making the process both sustainable and predictable. This model has set a benchmark for other states grappling with similar pension challenges.
THIS is not merely about clearing arrears, it’s about restoring trust in the system, rebuilding relationships with senior citizens and ensuring that those who spent their lives serving the state can retire with dignity. With continued focus on this initiative, Ondo State is proving that good governance goes beyond infrastructural development; it is also about caring for those who laid the foundation for the state’s success.
HOWEVER, while the gesture is commendable, it is crucial for such payments to be made promptly. The delay had resulted in many beneficiaries passing away before receiving their entitlements, and in some cases, the next of kin faced difficulties in accessing the benefits. To ensure retirees are able to enjoy their well-earned money, it is important to fast-track the payment process. This is particularly urgent in the context of Nigeria’s hyperinflationary economy, where the value of money is rapidly eroding. Retirees have suffered long enough and deserve to enjoy their retirement without further hardship.