Pensioners in Ogun State have appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to extend the Christmas and End of the Year bonus to them. This comes after the state government paid a Christmas bonus to civil servants last week. The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ogun State chapter, made the request in a letter to the governor, signed by Chairman Waheed Oloyede and Secretary Bola Lawal ¹.
The pensioners stated that the extension of the bonus would enable them to celebrate the Yuletide season. They also expressed gratitude to the governor for the prompt payment of December pensions. According to the NUP, the Christmas bonus paid to civil servants was a “proactive motivational gesture” that demonstrated Governor Abiodun’s “loving and compassionate personality” ¹.
The NUP’s letter to the governor read in part: “Your Excellency, this is to sincerely acknowledge and appreciate you for your kind gesture at ensuring the payment of December, 2024 Pensions early enough for us to celebrate Christmas in our own little way.” The pensioners also commended the governor for providing a Christmas bonus to the entire Ogun State workforce ¹.
The pensioners described the governor’s actions as a “super humane, loving, and compassionate” gesture. They appealed to Governor Abiodun to extend the bonus to all Ogun State pensioners, enabling them to enjoy the Yuletide season. The NUP expressed their gratitude to the governor in anticipation of his approval of their request ¹.
Governor Abiodun’s administration has been commended for its efforts in addressing the welfare of pensioners in Ogun State. Earlier this year, the state government paid ₦5.3 billion in gratuities to pensioners, which was widely praised by the NUP ².
The NUP had lauded Governor Abiodun for his commitment to addressing the financial entitlements of pensioners. The union noted that the payment of gratuities demonstrated the state government’s “sincerity of purpose” and strong commitment to the well-being of pensioners ².
The pensioners’ appeal to Governor Abiodun comes as the state government continues to implement measures aimed at improving the welfare of pensioners. The NUP has urged the governor to consider their request, which they believe would bring joy and relief to pensioners during the Yuletide season ¹.
The outcome of the pensioners’ appeal is yet to be seen. However, Governor Abiodun’s administration has shown a willingness to engage with pensioners and address their concerns. The NUP remains hopeful that their request will be granted, enabling pensioners to enjoy a more festive Yuletide season ¹.
As the year draws to a close, the NUP’s appeal serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing the welfare of pensioners. The outcome of their request will be closely watched in the coming days.
