Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has revealed a substantial increase in the monthly pensions and gratuities for retirees from both the state and local governments.
Starting from July 25, 2024, these payments will significantly rise from N456 million to N1 billion.
According to a report by Vanguard, this announcement was made by Suleiman Olanrewaju, the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Makinde, during the 70th birthday celebration of Segun Abatan, the state Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.
The event took place at the Pensioners’ House in Agbarigo, Ibadan.
Governor Makinde explained that his administration took over a considerable amount of unpaid pensions and gratuities when he assumed office in 2019.
Since then, his government has paid about N52 billion towards settling these debts at both the state and local government levels.
The governor assured the pensioners that his administration is committed to clearing a large portion, if not all, of the remaining unpaid pensions and gratuities before his term ends in 2027.
He emphasized the importance of taking care of retirees who have served the state diligently over the years.
In addition to the financial commitments, Governor Makinde praised Segun Abatan, describing him as a dedicated leader who is deeply concerned about the welfare of pensioners.