Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to the welfare of workers and pensioners in the state.
The governor made this known on Friday when he received members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Edo State chapter, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City.
Addressing the delegation, Gov. Okpebholo assured the pensioners that his administration remains focused on ensuring prompt payment of pensions and improving their overall welfare.
He emphasized that retirees who dedicated their productive years to the service of the state deserve dignity, respect, and timely entitlements.
The governor thereafter announced the constitution of a committee to look into their requests.
The committee is to be headed by the Head of Service of Edo State, Anthony Okumgbowa, with membership comprising the Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, the qccountant general and the permanent secretary, Pension Bureau.
Gov. Okpebholo also pledged to donate a bus to the union to ease their movement, describing the gesture as part of government’s broader commitment to supporting senior citizens in the state.
During the meeting, the governor engaged the pensioners on their welfare and specifically inquired whether the state was owing them pensions.
He reiterated his resolve to ensure that Edo State remains up to date in the payment of pensions and continues to prioritize the well-being of both active workers and retirees.
He said: “Tell me sincerely, is Edo State still owing you pensions? Because as far as this administration is concerned, we are committed to paying up to date.
“Our goal is to ensure that no retiree is left behind or subjected to hardship after years of service,”
Earlier, the state Chairman of the NUP, Samuel Okhuelegbe, commended the governor for steps taken so far to improve the condition of pensioners including the prompt payment of their pension.
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He, however, outlined key challenges facing members of the union, including the non-payment of gratuities to both state and local government pensioners, as well as outstanding monthly arrears owed to some retirees.
The union also expressed appreciation to the Edo State government for notable interventions, including the regular payment of monthly pensions, the introduction of a 13th month bonus, and the enrollment of pensioners into the state’s free health insurance scheme.
Gov. Okpebholo reaffirmed that his administration will continue to pursue policies that promote the welfare of workers and pensioners, noting that a motivated workforce and a well-cared-for retired population are essential to sustainable development in Edo State.
