The Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assured retirees in the state that his administration will prioritise their welfare by ensuring the regular payment of gratuities and a gradual settlement of outstanding pension arrears.
According to a statement released by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) on Saturday, the governor made this pledge during a courtesy visit to the Director-General of PenCom, Ms Omolola Oloworaran, at the commission’s headquarters.
Governor Ododo, while congratulating Oloworaran on her recent appointment as the DG of PenCom, described her as a proud daughter of Kogi State and pledged his continuous support for her leadership. He noted that the welfare of pensioners remains a top priority in his administration’s policies, stressing that concrete measures are already being put in place to guarantee regular payments.
The governor also said his interest in pension reforms started even before assuming office, adding that his government will continue to push for transparent reforms that will secure the financial future of workers after retirement.
“Our government is committed to ensuring pensioners do not suffer after their years of service. We are taking steps to make gratuity payments regular and to gradually clear the outstanding liabilities,” Ododo said.
In her response, the DG of PenCom, Ms Oloworaran, commended the governor for his efforts in protecting the welfare of retirees in Kogi State. She described him as a strong advocate of pension reforms and promised PenCom’s readiness to work with the Kogi State Government to strengthen pension administration in the state.
She added that the commission would collaborate closely with the state to promote transparency in pension management and guarantee a sustainable system that secures workers’ benefits.
The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to building a transparent and reliable pension system that protects the dignity and financial stability of workers and retirees in Kogi State.
