The Ondo State Government has commenced the disbursement of ₦2.39 billion as gratuity to civil servants who retired between 2016 and 2017.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Akure, described retirement as a phase of dignity and fulfilment — a period that deserves recognition, reward, and rest.
He noted that a similar gesture had earlier been extended to local government retirees, emphasizing that his administration considered it a responsibility to ensure retirees receive their benefits promptly, fairly, and transparently.
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed that since assuming office, his government had prioritized the welfare of pensioners, senior citizens, and all residents of the state.
“My administration has consistently released ₦180 million monthly to clear outstanding gratuity arrears, giving timely support to retirees, especially those with health and other urgent needs,” he said.
The governor added that the ongoing disbursement was part of a structured and credible process designed to promote equity and orderliness in payment.
“We have adopted the year of retirement from service as the primary criterion for qualification. This approach eliminates ambiguity and ensures that every retiree receives what is due without bias or delay,” he stated.
Aiyedatiwa assured that his administration would continue to uphold compassion, fairness, and accountability in handling pension and gratuity matters.
“We remain committed to offsetting all outstanding gratuity liabilities. Our retirees deserve honour, respect, and empathy for their meritorious service to the state,” he said, stressing that the payments reflected both moral duty and constitutional responsibility.
Earlier, Mr. Olubunmi Alade, Permanent Secretary of the Pension Transitional Department, expressed appreciation to the governor for his consistent support and commitment to pensioners’ welfare.
Alade commended Aiyedatiwa for reviving the hope of retirees through prompt release of funds for gratuities and pensions, noting that it was the first time in the state’s history that government was settling two full years of arrears at once.
Mr. Johnson Osunyemi, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ondo State Council, also lauded the gesture on behalf of pensioners, describing it as a welcome relief for the elderly.