By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced the immediate allocation of ₦10 billion to address the pension arrears owed to retirees within the state.
This was revealed on Tuesday during a meeting with members of the Pension Board, including the Chairman of the Bureau of State Pensions, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, and Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu, the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees.
Governor Oborevwori convened this meeting to tackle critical concerns regarding retirees’ welfare, focusing on outstanding payments and challenges associated with the contributory pension scheme.
He highlighted the accomplishments of his administration, noting that a total of ₦36.4 billion has been disbursed for pensions, with ₦1.4 billion allocated monthly for this purpose since he took office.
The Governor asserted that his administration has consistently met its monthly pension obligations without delay. However, he acknowledged the necessity to urgently resolve the arrears that existed prior to his tenure.
“Our retirees are individuals who dedicated their lives to the service of our state. It is only fair that they receive what they are rightfully owed, and ensuring their welfare will remain a top priority under my leadership,” he promised.
To ensure transparency, the Governor announced the formation of an oversight committee tasked with monitoring the distribution of the ₦10 billion fund, emphasizing his commitment to accountability.
He stressed that this initiative underscores his administration’s dedication to the well-being of senior citizens who have served Delta State with distinction.
In response to the announcement, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, the Chairman of the Bureau for State Pension, described the Governor’s decision as a welcome surprise, confirming that the ₦10 billion allocation would provide significant relief to retirees.
He pledged that the funds would be dedicated exclusively to pension disbursements and highlighted that the system is designed to maintain transparency and accountability.
During an interview with reporters, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu expressed gratitude to the Governor for what he deemed an unexpected and generous move.
“You caught us off guard; we anticipated a far lesser amount than the ₦10 billion you have just approved,” Osanekwu remarked. “I am overjoyed, and I’m certain that this news will bring great happiness to pensioners throughout the state.”
