Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has approved a bond worth over N4 billion for the payment of pension arrears owed to retirees under the contributory pension scheme.
Speaking during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration held at Fakunle High School, Osogbo, Governor Adeleke said the bond covers retirees from both state and local government levels.
“I have just approved, through the Office of the Head of Service, the payment of bonds for retirees under the contributory pension scheme totalling over N4 billion,” he announced.
The breakdown shows that N2.17 billion will go to retirees from civil service parastatals, secondary schools, tertiary institutions, and the Uniosun Teaching Hospital, while N2.09 billion is allocated to local government and primary school retirees.
Governor Adeleke acknowledged the rising cost of living and reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers and citizens. “We are actively supporting federal economic reforms and working to alleviate economic hardship,” he said.
He emphasised that his administration has significantly reduced the state’s inherited debt without resorting to borrowing. “We have cut inherited debt by over 40%, as confirmed by the Debt Management Office,” he noted.
He also highlighted efforts to promote local content in state procurement. “Through our local content policies, Osun professionals, suppliers, and artisans are fully engaged. Osun money is servicing Osun people,” he said.
In his remarks, Osun State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr Christopher Arapasopo, commended the governor for his pro-labour stance, including the clearing of salary and promotion arrears, and implementation of the N75,000 minimum wage.
He, however, appealed for the provision of housing and vehicle refurbishment loans, as well as enhanced training and recruitment into the civil service.
Commenting on the Workers’ Day theme, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” Arapasopo described it as a rallying call for advocacy and workers’ rights.
