ASABA – In a significant move aimed at alleviating the plight of retired civil servants, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the immediate release of Ten Billion Naira (₦10,000,000,000) to clear a substantial portion of the outstanding pension arrears owed to retirees in the state.
The announcement was made on Tuesday during a crucial meeting convened by the Governor with the State Pension Board and representatives of the retirees.
The meeting, held at the Government House in Asaba, included the Chairman of the Bureau of State Pensions, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, and the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu.
Governor Oborevwori stated that the meeting was necessary to directly address pressing issues affecting the welfare of the state's senior citizens, particularly the payment of backlogs and challenges related to the migration to the contributory pension scheme.
Highlighting his administration's consistent commitment, the Governor revealed that a total of ₦36.4 billion has been disbursed for pensions since he took office. He further emphasized that the state government has faithfully released ₦1.4 billion every month to meet its pension obligations without fail.
He, however, acknowledged that the inherited arrears, which accumulated before his tenure, required urgent and decisive action.
“Our retirees are men and women who gave their best years in service to the state. It is only just that they receive what is duly owed to them, and under my watch, their welfare will remain a top priority,” Governor Oborevwori assured.
To ensure the funds are managed with the utmost integrity, the Governor announced the formation of a special oversight team. This team will supervise the disbursement process, guaranteeing that the entire ₦10 billion is used transparently and accountably for its intended purpose.
In his response, the Chairman of the Bureau for State Pension, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, expressed profound gratitude, describing the Governor's announcement as a "pleasant surprise." He confirmed that the massive injection of funds would provide immense relief to countless retirees and their families.
“We pledge that these funds will be used exclusively for the payment of pension arrears. Our system is programmed to ensure transparency and accountability every step of the way,” Sir Ogidi-Gbegbaje stated.
Echoing this sentiment, the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu, was visibly elated. He thanked the Governor for what he called an "unexpected and magnanimous gesture."
“You took us unawares; what we were expecting was far less than the ₦10 billion you just approved,” Comrade Osanekwu said. “I am elated, and I know that when pensioners across the state hear this news, they will be very happy and offer prayers for your administration.”
This move is widely seen as a major fulfillment of the Governor's promise to prioritize the welfare of those who have dedicated their lives to the service of Delta State.