Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for approving the payment of ₦4.6 billion and ₦292 million as pension entitlements to disengaged staff of state-owned tertiary institutions. The affected institutions include the Colleges of Education, Ekiadolor and Igueben, as well as the Colleges of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi and Agenebode.
Speaking during a media parley at Government House in Benin City, Dr. Okungbowa described the governor’s decision as a clear reflection of his concern for the welfare of civil and public servants in Edo State. He explained that the approval had eased a major financial burden on the affected retirees and their families, adding that the governor demonstrated strong leadership by promptly agreeing to address the issue when it was first presented to him.
“The implication of this decision, when compared to other pressing government responsibilities such as infrastructure and road development, shows the Governor’s commitment to people over politics. This is not an easy feat, and for this, we are very grateful,” he said.
The Head of Service further noted that the move would boost morale within the civil service, stressing that how a government treats its retirees sends a powerful message to those still in active service. He urged civil and public servants in the state to rededicate themselves to their duties and continue delivering quality service to the people.
“Often times, when a government treats its retired officers well, it reassures those still in service that they too will be treated with dignity at the end of their careers. And this has a way of uplifting morale and strengthening commitment,” Dr. Okungbowa stated.
He added that the impression citizens have about government is shaped by their interactions with civil servants. “Knowing how much this administration has invested in our welfare, we must ensure that we deliver quality governance under the SHINE agenda,” he said.
Dr. Okungbowa disclosed that the ₦4.6 billion payout would be made in four tranches of ₦1.16 billion each, with the first tranche already disbursed in line with the provisions of the Pension Act. According to him, the approvals cover 682 pensioners from the College of Education, Ekiadolor and 32 from the College of Education, Igueben.
He also revealed that the ₦292 million released for the Colleges of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi and Agenebode represents the second tranche of payments to disengaged staff from those institutions.