The Oyo state government under the leadership of His Excellency, Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde has paid over N37 billion as gratuity and death benefits to retired primary school teachers and local government staff since the inception of his administration.
This was disclosed by the Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, Hon Akeem Ademola Ige while delivering his keynote address at the flag-off ceremony of the payment of gratuity to another batch of retired primary school teachers and local government staff and death benefits to next of kins of deceased pensioners.
Hon Akeem Ige explained further that the disbursement exercise of Three Billion Naira to another set of retirees will be held across the geo- political zones of the state in order to reduce the stress hitherto by retirees.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Finance , Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Gafar Bello and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Establishment and Training, Alhaji Siju Lawal commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering commitment to workers and pensioners welfare since assumption of office in May 2019 till date.
Also speaking at the event, the NUP National Treasurer Deacon Jare Jokanola and the NUP State Secretary, Oyo State Council , Comrade Segun Abatan acknowledged that Governor Seyi Makinde is most pensioners friendly Governor who has been consistent in doling out various welfare packages, noting that Seyi Makinde has distinguished himself from other governors .
The duo said both national and state NUP will continue to praise Governor Seyi Makinde because there are some states that are owing pensions and gratuities . “Seyi Makinde is now paying Six Billion Naira monthly as gratuity to both retired state workers, primary school teachers and Local Government Staff” they said.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Local Government Staff Pension Board, Mr Olufemi Akinwale appreciated the governor for his compassionate approach to governance and therefore advised the beneficiaries to utilize their gratuity wisely and be cautious of unscrupulous individuals who may seek to take advantage of them.
The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of cheques to beneficiries.
Some beneficiaries in their separate responses , Mr Stephen Amole , Mr Mudasiru Olalekan , Mrs. Akinboade Olufunke and Mrs Babalola Aminat gave kudos to Governor Seyi Makinde for payment of their retirement benefits and prayed that God will continue to be gracious to him.
The event had in attendance Permanent Secretaries from all the Administrative zones, State and branch NUP Executives, Heads of Departments, LGSPB and a host of others.
