Aiyedatiwa Clears ₦2.4 Billion Pension Arrears for 2016–2017 Ondo Retirees
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the disbursement of ₦2.396 billion in gratuity payments to retirees who left the state civil service in 2016 and 2017. The move marks another major step in his administration’s effort to clear pension arrears and restore retirees’ dignity.
The announcement came during a flag-off ceremony at the Cocoa Conference Hall in Akure, where retirees received their cheques. According to a statement posted on the Ondo State Government’s official X handle, the disbursement will reduce the long-standing backlog inherited from previous administrations.
Governor Highlights Transparency and Fairness
Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the initiative followed the earlier release of ₦1.4 billion to local government and primary school retirees.
“This is not a coincidence but a product of consistent planning and sincerity of purpose,” he said. “Our retirees deserve empathy, honour, and respect — this is not a favour but a moral and constitutional duty.”
He explained that his administration adopted a ‘year of exit’ payment method to ensure fairness and eliminate bias. The Governor also disclosed that ₦180 million is released monthly to gradually clear gratuity arrears, while regular pension payments continue uninterrupted.
Record-Breaking Payments in Ondo State
Aiyedatiwa also highlighted several welfare initiatives for senior citizens. These include ₦2.236 billion paid to 2015 retirees, a ₦30,000 monthly fuel subsidy support for pensioners, and ongoing investment in infrastructure, education, and digital metering across the state.
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Permanent Secretary Mrs. Bunmi Alade described the simultaneous clearance of two years’ arrears as “a first in Ondo State’s history.” She commended the governor for his leadership and commitment to pensioners’ welfare.
Similarly, Nigerian Union of Pensioners Chairman, Mr. Osuyemi, praised the governor for restoring hope to retirees who had endured long delays. “This administration has shown compassion and responsibility toward those who served the state faithfully,” he said.
Continued Effort to Clear Pension Backlogs
Last year, Governor Aiyedatiwa approved the payment of ₦3.2 billion in outstanding gratuities to cover arrears owed to retirees from 2015 under the State Pension Scheme. Of that amount, ₦1 billion was allocated to local government retirees from 2012 and 2013, while ₦2.2 billion addressed the 2015 gratuity for state pensioners.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s determination to completely clear inherited pension liabilities and ensure retirees live with dignity after years of service.
Ondo State Retirees Receive Renewed Hope Under Aiyedatiwa
With this latest ₦2.4 billion gratuity payment, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa continues to prioritize pensioners’ welfare and strengthen public trust in Ondo State’s administration. His consistent release of pension funds underscores a broader commitment to fiscal transparency, fairness, and care for retirees who built the state’s foundation.
