Ogun State Government Releases 6.7 Billion Naira to Clear Gratuity Backlog for Retired Public Servants

Ogun State Government Releases 6.7 Billion Naira to Clear Gratuity Backlog for Retired Public Servants

The Ogun State government has allocated 6.7 billion naira to clear the backlog of gratuities owed to retired public servants. Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun announced this during the opening of the 9th Quarterly General Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries – South West, Nigeria (ARHOSPS-SWN), held at the ARHOSPS Secretariat in Abeokuta.

Represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, the Governor emphasized that this initiative reflects the administration’s appreciation of its senior citizens and its commitment to their welfare. He acknowledged the significant contributions of retired officials to the ongoing “Building Our Future Together” agenda.

Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to maintaining strong connections with former public service leaders, underscoring the importance of their voices and wisdom in contributing to the standards upheld in the civil service. He pledged continued support for the Association and an openness to collaborate with its distinguished members.

In an effort to assist prospective retirees, especially those in senior positions, a new initiative has been established to provide training to help them transition into retirement successfully, ensuring they remain valuable assets to themselves and society.

The Governor encouraged senior citizens to reflect on the current challenges and opportunities within the public sector and to engage in constructive discussions aimed at identifying collaborative solutions that align with the aspirations of the people.

During the event, Dr. Ebenezer Okebukola, Regional President of the Association, commended Governor Abiodun for his efforts, particularly highlighting developments like the Agro Cargo Airport and partnerships to establish power plants that will bolster industrial growth and food security in Ogun State.

In his goodwill message, Chief Oluneye Okuboyejo, Chairman of the Governor’s Elder Consultative Council and the longest-serving Permanent Secretary, urged delegates to foster a spirit of camaraderie to achieve the Association’s goals.

Retired AIG and former INTERPOL Head, Lanre Bankole, delivered a keynote address on “The Elderly and the Challenge of Security in Nigeria.” He advised seniors to be cautious of cybercrime and suspicious investment schemes, while also urging them to navigate economic and personal challenges with care.

Host Chairman Engr. Adeniyi Abiola welcomed attendees and highlighted Ogun State’s active participation in the South West Association, expressing gratitude for the state’s ongoing support.

The meeting concluded with the establishment of a seven-member electoral committee, chaired by Chief Olatoye Adeyeye from Osun State, to oversee the election of new executive members. Delegates engaged in fruitful discussions, resulting in five resolutions focused on member welfare, regional development, and national progress.

Delegates, including Otunba Nurudeen Ojora from Lagos and Mrs. Mojisola Ajayi from Ondo State, expressed their appreciation to the Ogun State government for its investment in infrastructure and timely pension and gratuity payments for retirees.