Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun recently reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship with retirees in the state. This commitment aligns with his administration’s focus on enhancing public service delivery, further emphasized by receiving the ‘Special Appreciation Award’ from the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in Ogun State. The governor’s recognition was particularly poignant as it acknowledged his efforts in ensuring regular monthly pension payments and reinstating gratuity payments, crucial elements for the welfare of retirees. This award was presented during the association’s 25th anniversary and their 2024 Annual General Meeting held in Abeokuta, where Abiodun was represented by the state’s Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya.
In his speech at the anniversary celebration, Governor Abiodun recognized the invaluable contributions of the retired public servants to the state’s progress and the legacies they established within the public service. He expressed gratitude for their dedication, emphasizing that these achieved legacies lay a solid foundation for continued governance in Ogun State. Through their years of service, members of the association have helped shape policies and frameworks that have guided the state’s public administration, and the governor assured them that their efforts will be suitably honored and respected moving forward.
The governor’s commitment to strong partnerships was a recurring theme in his address, where he pledged to seek the expertise and counsel of retired officials to aid in the advancement of public service in Ogun State. He acknowledged the rich reservoir of experience and wisdom the retirees bring to contemporary challenges, highlighting that their guidance can greatly benefit the state’s future initiatives. The administration intends to honor the legacy left by these retirees, underlining the importance of collaboration in shaping a more prosperous Ogun State for all citizens.
The award presentation at the event included several other honorees, including 93-year-old Chief Oluneye Okuboyejo, the oldest member of the association, and others who have distinguished themselves in their contributions throughout their service careers. Additionally, posthumous awards were conferred on several prominent figures who made significant contributions to the state during their lifetimes, emphasizing the association’s commitment to recognizing service to the public even after death.
In line with his commitment to retirees, the Ogun State government has also taken tangible steps to ensure the welfare of its former workers. Recently, significant retirement benefits amounting to N100 million were disbursed to 86 retirees from the Ilushin Estate Limited, marking a milestone in the state’s efforts to support those who have dedicated their careers to public service. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, highlighted the importance of this disbursement, calling it a new chapter for sustainable growth and development for the estate and its retirees.
Overall, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration appears dedicated to not only maintaining the welfare of retirees but also seeking their guidance and support in shaping the future of Ogun State. The collaboration between the government and retired public servants is seen as pivotal in ensuring a successful public service that honors the past while striving for progress. The ongoing initiatives and recognition of service underscore a collective commitment to enhancing the quality of life for retirees and leveraging their expertise in the state’s governance.
