WITH the release of N6.7 billion to offset backlogs of gratuities for retired public servants, the Ogun State government yesterday reiterated its commitment to the prioritisation of retirees’ welfare.

Governor Dapo Abiodun dropped the hint at the opening of the 9th Quarterly General Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries – South West, Nigeria (ARHOSPS-SWN), hosted by the Ogun State chapter of the Association at the ARHOSPS Secretariat, opposite OOPL gate, Abiola Way, Abeokuta.

Represented by the Head of Service of the State, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, the governor said the gesture is a show of appreciation and the responsibility of a responsive government that is totally committed to the welfare and well-being of its senior citizens, as the roles they play in the ongoing actualization of the administration’s “Building Our Future Together” agenda have not gone unnoticed.

He restated his administration’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with the forebears of the Public Service and has continually demonstrated a deep respect for the founding fathers of the Civil Service, upon which he is privileged to build.

The governor said: “There is a clear recognition that progress is not complete without the voice and wisdom of those who have walked the path and contributed immensely to shaping the standards we uphold. In this regard, we shall continue to support the Association and maintain open lines of engagement to harness the wealth of experience within the distinguished body.”

According to him, an initiative has been put in place to train prospective retirees, especially members of the top echelon, in preparation for life after service.

The governor said: “This is also part of the government’s support for workers as they transition into retirement, in order to make them remain valuable to themselves, society, and the continued progress and development of Gateway State.

“Esteemed senior citizens, I urge you to reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing the Public Service in your respective states and the South West at large.

“Use the platform to craft ideas, develop strategies, and consider collaborative solutions that align with the aspirations of our people.

“This is because when leaders with your experience and vision engage in thoughtful conversation, progress is not far behind.”

The association’s President in the Southwest, Dr. Ebenezer Okebukola, recapped the events that had taken place in the region, including partnering with Brazil Amber Energia to establish power plants to further enhance industrial growth and food security in Ogun State, among others.

 Some of the delegates, including Otunba Nurudeen Ojora from Lagos and Mrs. Mojisola Ajayi from Ondo State, appreciated the host government for the prompt payment of pensions and gratuities to retirees in the state.