Aiyedatiwa’s Pension-Friendly Policies Earn Commendation as NUP Hails Prompt Payments, Gratuity Settlements and Free Healthcare for Pensioners
The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ondo State Council, led by Hon. Johnson Osunyemi, has expressed profound appreciation for the people-centred policies of the Ondo State Government under the dynamic and amiable leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. The union noted that the administration’s commitment to the welfare of pensioners has brought renewed hope and a new lease of life to senior citizens throughout the state.
The Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ondo State Council, and Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, Comrade Akin Sunday, has lauded the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for what he described as remarkable strides in the welfare of pensioners across Ondo State.
He made the commendation while speaking with Democrat News Magazine in his office on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, where he expressed satisfaction with the government’s commitment to the well-being of retired workers.
According to Comrade Akin, one of the most commendable achievements of the present administration is the consistency in the payment of monthly pensions. He noted that pensioners in the state now receive their pensions promptly on or before the 25th day of every month, a development that has brought relief, stability and renewed confidence among retirees who dedicated the productive years of their lives to the service of the state.
The labour leader further disclosed that the Ondo State Government recently released over ₦650 million for the payment of pension arrears owed to state pensioners. He described the gesture as a clear demonstration of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s sincerity, compassion and determination to address the long-standing challenges confronting pensioners in the state.
According to him, the payment has eased financial burdens on many retirees and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to prioritize their welfare.
Speaking on gratuity payments, Comrade Akin Sunday revealed that the state government has made significant progress in settling outstanding gratuities. He explained that payments at the state level have advanced to beneficiaries from the 2018 and 2019 batches, while the local government gratuity payment process is set to move forward with the official flag-off of payments for the 2015 batch. He added that arrangements are already underway to commence payments for the 2016 batch immediately after the completion of the current exercise.
The NUP Secretary also showered encomiums on the governor for introducing a pensioner-friendly health insurance scheme. He explained that during discussions on the programme, pensioners strongly opposed the proposal that required them to contribute two percent of the cost.
According to him, the union insisted that healthcare services for retirees should be completely free, considering their years of dedicated service to the state. He expressed delight that the government listened to their concerns and graciously approved free healthcare coverage for all pensioners in Ondo State.
Comrade Akin Sunday described Governor Aiyedatiwa as a responsive, compassionate and people-oriented leader who has continued to demonstrate genuine concern for the welfare of senior citizens. He stated that the governor’s interventions in pension payments, gratuity settlements, and healthcare provision have significantly improved the quality of life of retirees and restored hope to thousands of pensioners across the state.
He therefore called on all pensioners in Ondo State to continue supporting the administration through prayers and constructive engagement. While appreciating Governor Aiyedatiwa for the numerous welfare initiatives already implemented, Comrade Akin Sunday expressed optimism that even greater achievements lie ahead. He urged retirees to remain patient and hopeful, emphasizing that the government has shown sufficient commitment to ensuring that pensioners receive the respect, care, and benefits they deserve after years of meritorious service to the state.