Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has taken a decisive step to address the long-standing concerns of retired workers in the state by approving the immediate release of ₦10 billion for the payment of outstanding pension arrears.
The Governor made this announcement on Tuesday during a meeting with the State Pension Board, which was led by Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, Chairman of the Bureau of State Pensions, and Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu, State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees.
The meeting was convened to deliberate on pressing issues affecting retirees, particularly the backlog of entitlements and difficulties associated with the contributory pension scheme.
Governor Oborevwori explained that his administration prioritised the welfare of senior citizens and retirees.
He noted that retirees, having dedicated the most productive years of their lives to the growth and development of Delta State, deserved to enjoy dignity, comfort, and timely payment of their benefits in retirement.
Highlighting his administration’s performance so far, the Governor disclosed that since assuming office, his government had disbursed a total of ₦36.4 billion on pensions.
He also revealed that ₦1.4 billion had been consistently released monthly to meet pension obligations, stressing that the state had never defaulted in its monthly pension payments under his leadership.
To ensure transparency in the management of the new ₦10 billion release, Governor Oborevwori announced the creation of a special oversight team to monitor its disbursement and application.
According to him, this measure will guarantee that every naira is judiciously utilised to clear arrears and address pension-related concerns.
“This gesture is not just about clearing arrears,” the Governor explained.
“It is about reaffirming this administration’s commitment to the men and women who laboured tirelessly for the service of Delta State.
“Their sacrifices must never be forgotten, and their welfare will remain central to our policies.”
Reacting to the Governor’s pronouncement, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, Chairman of the Bureau for State Pensions, described the development as a pleasant surprise.
He noted that the release of such a huge amount would significantly ease the financial burden of retirees and restore hope to many households.
He assured the Governor that the funds would be managed transparently and applied exclusively to pension payments.
Also speaking, the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu, expressed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of pensioners.
He described the Governor’s decision as an unexpected but magnanimous gesture, stressing that it exceeded their expectations.
“You have taken us completely by surprise,” Osanekwu said with delight.
“What we anticipated was far less than the ₦10 billion you just approved. Personally, I am elated, and I am convinced that when pensioners across Delta State hear this news, they will be filled with joy and renewed confidence in your administration.”
The Governor’s approval of the ₦10 billion release has been widely interpreted as a bold statement of his administration’s commitment to good governance, social justice, and the welfare of senior citizens.
For many retirees, this intervention represents financial relief and recognition of their years of service to the state.