Oyo govt begins N3bn gratuity payment to retired teachers, LG workers

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Government has commenced the payment of ₦3 billion in gratuities to more than 1,000 retired primary school teachers, local government workers and next of kin of deceased pensioners across the state.

The payment exercise, coordinated by the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board (LGSPB), was officially flagged off on Tuesday at the Local Government Staff Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan. Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige, said Governor Seyi Makinde approved and released the ₦3 billion for the exercise, describing the move as another demonstration of the administration’s commitment to the welfare of retired workers across the state.

According to Ige, the gratuity payment will be carried out across Oyo State’s geopolitical zones to ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive their entitlements. He also congratulated the retirees and urged residents to continue supporting the Makinde administration.

“The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, has approved and released the sum of three billion naira for the payment exercise. I congratulate all the beneficiaries of this gratuity payment,” Ige said, while advising retirees to make prudent use of the funds and avoid falling victim to fraudsters.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Staff Pension Board, Tpl. Olufemi Akinwale, said Governor Makinde has consistently prioritised the welfare of pensioners since assuming office. He added that the administration recently approved the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to ensure sustainable payment of retirement benefits.

Akinwale explained that under the new arrangement, the Oyo State Government would contribute 12 per cent, while workers enrolled in the scheme would contribute eight per cent. He noted that the Contributory Pension Scheme would run alongside the Defined Benefits Scheme to strengthen pension administration in the state.

Similarly, the Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Sanjo Adewoyin, commended Governor Makinde for sustaining the payment of gratuities and other retirement benefits. He also praised the appointment of Hon. Akeem Ige as chairman of the Pension Board, describing him as experienced and committed.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Adisa Gafar and Mrs. Bejide expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising the welfare of pensioners and retired workers. They said the payment would bring relief to many retirees and thanked the government for fulfilling its promise to improve the welfare of senior citizens.