Delta Governor approves N10 billion to clear pension arrears

The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has authorized the immediate allocation of N10 billion to address outstanding pension arrears owed to retirees within the state.

This announcement was made on Tuesday during a meeting with Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, the Chairman of the Bureau of State Pensions, as well as Anthony Osanekwu, the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, in Asaba, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Governor Oborevwori indicated that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss various issues pertaining to the welfare of retirees, including the settlement of backlog payments and challenges related to the migration under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). He noted that his administration has thus far disbursed over N36 billion for pension services in the state. Furthermore, he highlighted that N1.4 billion has been allocated monthly for pension payments since he assumed office.

The governor emphasized that the state has consistently fulfilled its monthly pension obligations during his administration. However, he acknowledged the necessity of urgently addressing the arrears that predated his tenure. “Our retirees are individuals who have devoted their best years to service in the state. It is both just and necessary that they receive the benefits to which they are entitled, and ensuring their welfare remains a top priority under my administration,” he stated.

In conjunction with this announcement, the governor established an oversight committee to monitor the implementation of the released N10 billion, underscoring the importance of maintaining transparency in the process. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to prioritizing the welfare of senior citizens who have contributed significantly to the state.

Ogidi-Gbegbaje characterized the governor’s announcement as a “pleasant surprise,” expressing confidence that the N10 billion allocation would provide substantial relief to retirees. He assured that the funds would be exclusively utilized for pension payments, emphasizing that the system is designed to ensure transparency and accountability.

Osanekwu also expressed gratitude to the governor for this unexpected and generous decision, remarking, “You took us by surprise; our expectations were significantly lower than the N10 billion you have just approved. I am elated, and I am confident that this news will bring significant joy to pensioners across the state.”

In May, Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers, noting that Delta State was among the first to implement a new minimum wage of N77,500, exceeding the national benchmark of N70,000. This adjustment increased the monthly wage bill from N11.5 billion to N15.3 billion.

As part of its civil service reforms and engagements, the administration has facilitated three town hall meetings and a notable dinner with senior civil service staff. “We have upheld our commitments in this area. Over 8,000 public servants have received training, including 450 senior management staff who participated in a comprehensive seven-weekend training program in collaboration with the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), thus marking a significant advancement in leadership development,” he stated.

The governor conveyed that to enhance understanding of the MORE Agenda, the government organized a strategic retreat with Sewa Assets Management for commissioners and heads of inter-ministerial agencies.

Regarding workforce expansion, he reported that 13,497 new teaching and non-teaching staff members have been recruited across the state’s 25 local government areas to address manpower shortages. Furthermore, promotion interviews have been conducted for over 2,193 officers, reflecting the administration’s commitment to career advancement.