By Wilson Adekumola
The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke has ordered the immediate payment of pension entitlements to retired workers as planned in the template released earlier 2023.
The direct was issued by the governor when some leaders of paid him a Sallah visit on Friday, noting that he has received many representations from the pensioners, restating his determination to meet their request in accordance with his campaign promises.
He stated that the template released earlier 2023 on clearing of outstanding salaries and pensions was still in force and subsequently directed the Head of Service to facilitate the implementation by ensuring the payment of the pension arrears in line with the approved template.
“The template was created with an eye on gradual clearing of the salary and pension debts. This was in recognition of the financial status of the state which is well documented and known to the public. Our administration focuses on meeting the various needs of the state within a tight financial situation.
“Our administration is however prioritizing workers’ welfare which covers in and out of service workers. I restate our commitment to the welfare of our senior citizens, the pensioners. The phased payments is a standby directive and I assured our pensioners that they are not and cannot be forgotten,” the governor assured.
While speaking on pro-pensioners plans, the Governor stressed that his administration was almost finalising a plan to enroll the pensioners under the state health insurance scheme to address their health needs.
“Our administration is working hard on health insurance enrollment for the pensioners. Our senior citizens needs constant health attention. We think the best approach is to enrol them as that will ease the burden of treatment during their retirement.
“We are working on the details. Once it is finalized, we will release it for immediate implementation,” a statement signed by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, quoted Adeleke.
