The Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Ogun State Council, has expressed its gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for approving a wage increase for retirees, representing the first rise in pension payments in 16 years. In a heartfelt letter signed by the union’s chairman, Waheed Oloyede, and secretary, Bola Lawal, they commended the governor’s dedication to the welfare of pensioners in the state. The new policy includes a wage increment of N20,000 for all pensioners, effective from October 2024, demonstrating a significant step towards addressing the financial challenges faced by retirees in Ogun State.
The union’s leadership highlighted the governor’s “kindness and consideration,” emphasizing the positive impact of his administration on pension management. The letter acknowledged Abiodun as an “amiable” and “pensioner-friendly” leader, noting his commitment to ensure timely pension payments. In addition to regular payments, the union appreciated his efforts in releasing accumulated gratuities and implementing financial relief initiatives, such as providing subsidized rice to help retirees cope with the rising costs associated with fuel subsidy removal.
Furthermore, the Ogun State Government has allocated N5 billion to address outstanding gratuities owed by previous administrations, part of broader reform efforts to alleviate the backlog of unpaid dues. The pensioners voiced their appreciation for this release, recognizing its vital role in easing their financial burdens. However, they also urged the governor to implement additional adjustments to align pensions with the Federal Government’s directives on pension reviews, ensuring that retirees receive fair compensation reflective of current economic conditions.
In their letter, the union leaders reiterated their gratitude while also advocating for more attention to be given to consequential reviews in pensions, ensuring that retirees’ benefit adjustments keep pace with the changing economic landscape. The recent introduction of the wage increment has been warmly welcomed by the pensioners, as they observed their October salary alerts already reflecting the new N20,000 increase, marking a positive change in their financial outlook.
Amidst these developments, the union remains optimistic that Governor Abiodun’s administration will continue to prioritize the welfare of retirees in Ogun State. This assurance is rooted in the governor’s actions thus far, which have fostered a sense of trust and cooperation between the state government and pensioners. The union has committed itself to supporting the governor’s initiatives, signaling a collaborative approach to address the needs of retirees.
In summary, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Ogun State Council, is hopeful that the newfound attention to their welfare will lead to ongoing improvements in pension management. The recent wage increment and efforts to clear outstanding gratuities highlight a positive shift in governance concerning pensioners’ needs. As the union advocates for necessary adjustments to align with federal guidelines, it expresses confidence that the governor will maintain his focus on enhancing the lives of retirees, fostering a future where their contributions to society are both recognized and rewarded.
