The Ogun State Government has restated its unwavering commitment to the well-being of its retirees, announcing the release of N6.7 billion to clear the backlog of gratuities owed to retired public servants.
Governor Dapo Abiodun made this known during the 9th Quarterly General Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries – South West Nigeria (ARHOSPS-SWN), hosted by the Ogun State chapter in Abeokuta.
Represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, the governor said the payout reflected the administration’s sincere appreciation for the meritorious service rendered by senior citizens.
“This gesture is a responsibility of a responsive government. It is our way of saying thank you to those who have spent their productive years in service to our great state,” the governor noted.
Abiodun emphasized that his administration places high value on the experiences and wisdom of the retired heads of service and permanent secretaries. He maintained that their contributions remain instrumental to the actualization of his administration’s “Building Our Future Together” agenda.
“There is a clear recognition that progress is not complete without the voice and wisdom of those who have walked the path and contributed immensely to shaping the standards we uphold,” he said. “We shall continue to support the Association and maintain open lines of engagement to harness the wealth of experience within this distinguished body.”
Governor Abiodun also disclosed the implementation of a training programme for prospective retirees, particularly at the top echelon of public service, to equip them for life after retirement. He added that such initiatives are aimed at ensuring that retired workers continue to remain relevant and contribute meaningfully to society.
In his words: “We want our retirees to continue to live fulfilled lives. Preparing them for retirement is part of our investment in the future of Ogun State.”
Regional President of ARHOSPS-SWN, Dr. Ebenezer Okebukola, in his address, commended the government of Ogun State for its consistent support. He also highlighted recent collaborations with Brazil Amber Energia towards the establishment of power plants in the region to promote industrial development and food security.
Dr. Okebukola said, “We are grateful to Governor Abiodun for the warm reception and the conducive environment provided for this meeting. Ogun State has remained a pillar in the affairs of our Association.”
The Chairman of the Governor’s Elder Consultative Council, Chief Oluneye Okuboyejo, the last surviving Permanent Secretary from the creation of the state, urged members of the association to uphold the bond of unity and continue pushing for collective progress.
In a keynote address titled “The Elderly and the Challenge of Security in Nigeria,” retired AIG and former INTERPOL Head, Sikiru Lanre Bankole, warned senior citizens to be cautious of cyber fraud and suspicious investment schemes.
He advised: “Any business that promises 100 percent return is a scam. Avoid late-night travels, and beware of isolation that can lead to depression. Prioritize your safety and health.”
Host Chairman, Engr. Adeniyi Abiola, appreciated Governor Abiodun for his consistent backing and affirmed Ogun’s active participation since the inception of the South West chapter of the Association.
A seven-member electoral committee chaired by Chief Olatoye Adeyeye of Osun State was inaugurated to oversee the forthcoming elections of the Association’s executive members.
At the close of the meeting, five resolutions were passed following rich deliberations on regional development, national unity, and the enhancement of members’ welfare. Delegates, including Otunba Nurudeen Ojora from Lagos and Mrs. Mojisola Ajayi from Ondo, lauded Ogun State’s dedication to infrastructure growth and timely pension payments.
