Makinde Increases Gratuity Payment of Retirees from ₦1.5bn to ₦3bn
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has approved a 100 per cent increase in the monthly gratuity payment to retirees in the state, raising the amount from ₦1.5 billion to ₦3 billion.
The development was confirmed by the Oyo State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which described the governor’s decision as a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers and retirees.
According to the NLC, the increase will significantly improve the pace at which gratuity arrears are cleared, thereby easing the financial burden on retired civil servants who depend on their entitlements for sustenance.
Labour unions in the state, including the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), have commended Governor Makinde for prioritising workers’ welfare, noting that the gesture reflects a people-oriented and labour-friendly administration.
They also recalled that the Makinde-led government has consistently maintained policies aimed at supporting workers, including the regular payment of salaries and the approval of a 13th-month salary for workers at the end of every year.
Observers say the increase in gratuity payment aligns with the state government’s broader efforts to address pension and gratuity backlogs, an issue that has remained a challenge in many parts of the country.
The latest approval is expected to bring relief to thousands of retirees in Oyo State and further strengthen confidence in the government’s commitment to social welfare and inclusive governance.