Oborevwori releases N10bn to clear Delta retirees’ pension backlog

Retirees in Delta State can now heave a sigh of relief as Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori surprised them with the approval of the immediate release of ₦10 billion to clear outstanding pension arrears.

The Governor gave the approval on Tuesday during a meeting with the Pension Board, led by 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.

Oborevwori explained that he convened the meeting to address pressing issues concerning retirees’ welfare, including payment of backlogs and migration challenges under the contributory pension scheme.

Highlighting the achievements of his administration, the Governor stated that a total of ₦36.4 billion had so far been paid in pensions, disclosing that ₦1.4 billion is released monthly for pension payments since he assumed office.

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He emphasized that the state had not defaulted in meeting its monthly pension obligations under his watch.

However, Oborevwori noted that the arrears, which predated his administration, must be urgently addressed. “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,” he assured.

To ensure accountability, the Governor announced the constitution of an oversight team to supervise the implementation of the ₦10 billion release, stressing that transparency would be strictly upheld.

He added that the gesture reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of senior citizens who had laboured in service of Delta State.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Bureau of State Pensions, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, described the Governor’s announcement as a “pleasant surprise,” assuring that the ₦10 billion release would provide significant relief to retirees.

He further pledged that the funds would be used exclusively for pension payments, stressing that the system was designed to guarantee transparency and accountability.

Speaking with journalists, the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu, expressed appreciation to the Governor for what he described as an unexpected and magnanimous gesture.

“You took us unawares; what we were expecting was far less than the ₦10 billion you just approved,” Osanekwu said. “I am elated, and I know that when pensioners across the state hear this news, they will be very happy.”

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE