The Ondo State Government has commenced the payment of over N2.6 billion in gratuities to retired local government and primary school workers who exited service in 2015.

The government said the gesture was in fulfilment of its commitment to the welfare of serving and retired workers in the state.

Speaking at the ceremonial flag-off of the payment exercise on Wednesday in Akure, the state capital, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the release of the funds underscored his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of senior citizens in the state.

Represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, the governor said the development was in line with the objectives of the ‘OUR EASE’ development agenda of his administration.

He said, “Our administration has already cleared gratuity arrears for retirees from 2012, 2013 and 2014, and we are determined to pay all outstanding gratuities before the expiration of our tenure.

“A total sum of N2,614,266,954.88 will be paid directly into the accounts of beneficiaries in the 2015 batch.”

Aiyedatiwa attributed the release of the funds to deliberate planning, prudent financial management and his administration’s resolve to prioritise the welfare of the people.

He admonished the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the money, particularly by investing in their health and overall well-being.

He also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees and the Nigeria Union of Teachers for their cooperation and continued advocacy for the welfare of their members.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, said the governor had directed that special funds be set aside monthly specifically for the payment of retirees’ gratuities, describing the development as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, the state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Mr Johnson Osunyemi, expressed appreciation to the governor for sustaining the bulk payment of gratuities, saying the gesture had restored hope and confidence among pensioners in the state.

He further noted that pensioners in the state had continued to receive their monthly pensions promptly since the inception of the present administration.