Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has made significant strides in addressing the financial concerns of state pensioners by approving an allocation of N1 billion as gratuity payments. This decision comes on the heels of a previous distribution where N3.5 billion in gratuity cheques was handed to retirees in a concerted effort to mitigate the backlog of outstanding gratuities. The initiative underscores the governor’s commitment to alleviating the financial burdens faced by retired public servants, who have often struggled with delayed payments due to previous administrative oversights. By taking these steps, Oyebanji emphasizes the importance of honoring the service and sacrifices of retirees in Ekiti State.
In an official statement, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, detailed further financial support initiatives that have been put in place. Specifically, the governor has sanctioned the payment of two months’ worth of pension arrears to local government pensioners, a move that signifies a proactive approach to rectifying systemic financial delays. This comprehensive plan includes not only pensioners but also institutions of higher learning in the state, illustrating an extensive effort to stabilize and support various sectors within Ekiti.
Moreover, the governor’s financial strategy encompasses the approval of outstanding subventions to several educational institutions, including Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, and the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti. Each of these institutions is set to receive payments that address one or two months of overdue support, ensuring they can continue their operations and provide quality education and healthcare services. This financial backing illustrates a broader commitment to ensuring that public institutions are adequately funded, thereby enhancing service delivery to the community.
The judiciary has also benefited from this financial initiative, receiving a one-month outstanding subvention that reiterates the governor’s intent to uphold the integrity and functionality of the state’s legal framework. Such payments are crucial for maintaining the operational capacity of the judiciary, ensuring that it can effectively serve the citizens of Ekiti State. The coordinated payment plan reflects a recognition of the pivotal roles that these various sectors play in the overall governance and social framework of the state.
Governor Oyebanji’s administration is framed around a specific agenda: ensuring the welfare of workers and retirees, while simultaneously prioritizing the payment of outstanding entitlements owed by previous administrations. This long-term vision aligns with the administration’s principles of continuity and shared prosperity, reflecting a commitment to rectify historical discrepancies in the management of pension and educational funding. By addressing these debts, Oyebanji is laying down a foundation for a more stable and supportive governance structure in Ekiti State.
In conclusion, the financial commitments made by Governor Biodun Oyebanji signifies a dedicated effort to prioritize the well-being of retirees and workers while ensuring the stable operation of key public institutions. By fulfilling his promises to clear outstanding debts and subventions, the governor fosters a sense of trust and accountability within the state. He has encouraged workers to maintain their focus on delivering excellent service, assuring them that their welfare remains a top priority for his administration. This comprehensive strategy aims not only to rectify past oversights but also to build a more prosperous future for all citizens in Ekiti State.
