Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun announced that his administration has disbursed ₦179.7 billion in pensions and gratuities to state and local government retirees since assuming office in 2019.
Speaking during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Abeokuta, the governor said the payments covered backlog from 2012 to 2017, and that pensions are now paid alongside workers’ salaries, reflecting a policy shift toward more inclusive and timely worker welfare.
“This administration has paid off the pension backlog from 2012 to 2017. Pensions are now paid concurrently with salaries. We have spent ₦179.7 billion in pensions and gratuities for retirees at both state and local government levels,” Governor Abiodun stated.
Housing Scheme and Welfare Initiatives
The governor also unveiled a 350-hectare housing project in Ijemo/Onisela, established under the Sites and Services Scheme. The development, named the Prince Dapo Abiodun Bureaucrats Estate, is designed to provide essential infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity, and will help civil servants transition into homeownership.
He noted that his administration had cleared outstanding National Housing Scheme remittances, enabling easier access to mortgage loans for workers. In addition, car and motorcycle loans totaling ₦1.6 billion have been disbursed to 12,500 beneficiaries.
To cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal, ₦8 billion in palliatives were provided to workers and pensioners between July 2023 and March 2024.
“We remain committed to a worker-friendly governance style and value the partnership with labour in achieving our shared developmental goals,” the governor said.
Labour Reacts: Commendations and Demands
Federal Controller of Labour in Ogun, Mr. Andy Egbor, acknowledged the contributions of workers to national development and praised the state’s consistent efforts in addressing their needs.
The state NLC Chairman, Mr. Hameed Benco, while commending the governor’s strides, urged the administration to address the economic strain on workers by:
Building low-cost housing,
Setting up a price control board, and
Providing interest-free loans to workers.
Similarly, TUC Chairman, Comrade Akeem Lasisi, drew attention to nationwide economic hardship and insecurity but praised Ogun State for prompt pension payments and continued support for workers.
Looking Ahead
Governor Abiodun concluded by expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for economic reforms he said are beginning to stabilize inflation and stimulate growth. He called on workers to continue supporting the state’s reform agenda and pledged to maintain his administration’s focus on welfare and infrastructural development.
“Our modest gains have only been possible because of your resilience and dedication. You are the engine room of our progress,” he said.
