Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has authorized the release of N10 billion to settle long-standing pension arrears owed to retirees in the state. The announcement came on Tuesday during a meeting with the Pension Board. This meeting was led by its Chairman, Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, alongside the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Anthony Osanekwu.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori explained that the meeting was convened to address pressing concerns about retirees’ welfare. These issues included the backlog of pension payments and challenges linked to migration under the contributory pension scheme.
He disclosed that since assuming office, his administration had already paid out N36.4 billion in pensions. And also consistently released N1.4 billion every month to cover obligations.
“So far, Delta State has not defaulted on its pension commitments under my watch,” Oborevwori affirmed. “Our retirees are men and women who dedicated their best years to public service. And it is only right that they receive their entitlements. Their welfare will always remain a priority for this administration.”
To ensure accountability, the governor announced the formation of an oversight team that will supervise the disbursement of the N10 billion fund. He emphasized that transparency and due diligence would guide the entire process.
Reacting to the development, Ogidi-Gbegbaje described the governor’s directive as a “pleasant surprise.” He assured retirees that the funds would be applied solely to pension payments. He added that the system was structured to promote transparency and prevent mismanagement.
Similarly, Anthony Osanekwu, Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, expressed appreciation, calling the gesture both unexpected and highly commendable.
For over a decade, many retirees in Delta State have struggled with unpaid pensions dating back to 2012. With this intervention, Governor Oborevwori has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the lives of senior citizens who served the state diligently.
