Ekiti State government has presented a N100 million cheque for payment of gratuities to 41 local government and primary school retirees in the state.
Governor Fayemi, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, said payment of the gratuities was in fulfillment of his promises to ensure that pensioners enjoy a worthy life after their meritorious service to the state.
Fayemi expressed his commitment to prioritising issues that affect the welfare and wellbeing of pensioners with an assurance to sustain the techniques adopted in defraying outstanding gratuities in the state.
The governor promised to continue to utilise his position as the Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum in leading a frontal advocacy that would position issues and policies affecting pensioners on the front burner of government agenda.
Fayemi assured that government would continue to try its best in making life comfortable for retirees, urging the beneficiaries to expend the money on profitable ventures.
“You have laboured for Ekiti State and now you are to collect the fruit of your labour and it speaks to the commitment of the government at ensuring that gratuity and pension are paid as at when due.
“It saddens the heart of the governor that many retirees that served their fatherland had not been paid their entitlement.
“The governor is desirous of leading a frontal attack on all the liabilities that our pensioners are due for both in Ekiti State and as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.”
Earlier, The State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP, in Ekiti, Elder Ayo Kumapayi, commended the governor for his policy on the payment of pensions and gratuities which had allowed members to fulfill their financial commitment to the union.
