Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Thursday announced that his administration has spent a total of N179.7 billion on pensions and gratuities for state and local government retirees since assuming office in 2019.
Abiodun made this statement during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, where he also disclosed the clearance of pension backlogs from 2012 to 2017 and the settlement of National Housing Scheme remittances to facilitate access to mortgage loans.
The governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, saying, “As a worker-friendly administration, we have made deliberate efforts to deepen our partnership with labor to improve working conditions and enhance the welfare of our workers across the state.”
He outlined several achievements, including the payment of pension arrears for the period 2012 to 2017, and the disbursement of N179.7 billion in pensions and gratuities. Abiodun also revealed that 12,500 workers had benefitted from car and motorcycle loans totaling N1.6 billion.
Further addressing the challenges posed by the subsidy removal, the governor revealed that N8 billion had been allocated as palliative support to state workers and pensioners between July 2023 and March 2024.
He also highlighted the launch of a Sites and Services Scheme on 350 hectares of land at Ijemo/Onisela, which aims to support workers’ aspirations to become property owners through affordable mortgage schemes. The initiative will provide infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity in a bid to lower the cost of property development for individuals and businesses.
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The governor extended his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his role in repositioning the nation’s economy and addressing inflation, noting that the collaboration between the state government and workers has created a favorable environment for both local and foreign investments.
Abiodun praised the workforce’s contributions to the socio-economic development of the state, stressing their vital role in driving the state’s progress despite the current economic challenges. He also acknowledged the hard realities brought about by the country’s economic situation, assuring that his administration is committed to addressing them.
During the event, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Hameed Benco, expressed concerns over job security and workers’ welfare amid the ongoing economic difficulties. He urged governments to build low-cost housing, establish a market pricing regulatory board, and provide interest-free loans to workers to alleviate their hardship.
Comrade Akeem Lasisi, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), referred to the Workers’ Day celebration as a struggle against oppression. He also called on the government to tackle insecurity caused by Boko Haram, banditry, kidnappings, and herdsmen activities, which continue to threaten the safety and security of the nation’s workforce.
Governor Abiodun concluded by urging the state’s workforce to continue their dedication to helping the government revive the economy and improve infrastructure across the state.