Makinde’s aide lauds Oyo pension reforms, says retirees better off

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Special Adviser on Media to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, has highlighted the impact of the administration’s pension reforms, saying the measures have transformed the lives of retirees in the state.

Olanrewaju, in an article titled “Lest we forget: With Makinde’s reform, pensioners now have a new lease of life,” said pensioners in Oyo State had moved from years of hardship and uncertainty to improved welfare under the Makinde administration.

He recalled that before the governor assumed office in 2019, pensioners faced challenges caused by delayed payment of pensions and gratuities, noting that some retirees struggled to meet basic needs, access healthcare and support their families.

The governor’s aide said the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Oyo State Council, had previously taken legal action over unpaid entitlements owed to retired primary school teachers and local government pensioners, describing the situation as a major concern for senior citizens.

According to him, Governor Makinde, upon assumption of office, pledged that pensions would no longer be delayed or paid in percentages and also committed to clearing outstanding gratuity arrears.

Olanrewaju stated that the administration introduced monthly gratuity payments, which he said increased over the years, while also implementing other welfare measures such as enrolling pensioners into the state health insurance scheme and reviewing pension payments.

He added that the reforms had restored confidence among retirees, with some pensioners expressing relief over improved access to their entitlements, healthcare and ability to support their families.

The media aide further noted that the Nigeria Union of Pensioners had commended Governor Makinde for his efforts in addressing pension challenges, adding that the reforms had changed the narrative of retirement in Oyo State from hardship to dignity and hope.