The Ondo State Government has disbursed ₦2.4 billion in gratuities to pensioners who retired from the state public service in 2018 and 2019, in a move aimed at easing the financial hardship caused by delayed entitlements.
Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the payment during a flag-off ceremony in Akure, describing the disbursement as part of ongoing efforts to restore dignity and welfare to retired workers.
The latest payout follows an earlier release of ₦2.2 billion in October 2025, which covered gratuities owed to retirees from 2016 and 2017, indicating a phased approach by the administration to clear outstanding pension liabilities.
Gov. Aiyedatiwa said the initiative reflects his government’s commitment to ensuring that retirees receive their benefits in full and without further delay.
“This occasion is not merely an administrative exercise; it is a demonstration of our administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, dignity, and well-being of those who served the state diligently,” he said.
He added that the government remains focused on addressing inherited pension backlogs, noting that clearing arrears is a priority of his administration.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Pension Transitional Department, Mr. Peter Akingbade, said the exercise marks a significant milestone in the state’s pension administration, as beneficiaries are receiving their full gratuity entitlements rather than partial payments.
He noted that the development provides relief and renewed hope to retirees who had waited years to access their benefits.
