Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the immediate release of ₦10 billion to offset the backlog of pension arrears owed to retirees.
This directive was made following a meeting on Tuesday called by Governor Oborevwori with the State Pension Board, led by its Chairman, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, and the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu.
As part of measures to ensure accountability and transparency in the disbursement process, the Governor also announced the constitution of a special oversight team.
This team has been saddled with the mandate to monitor the implementation of the payment and ensure that the funds reach intended beneficiaries promptly and fairly.
During the meeting, Oborevwori emphasised the importance of addressing longstanding issues affecting the state’s retirees, particularly concerning backlogs of unpaid pensions and the transition to the contributory pension scheme.
“So far, my administration has disbursed a total of ₦36.4 billion in pension payments, averaging ₦1.4 billion monthly. Since taking office, the state has not defaulted in its monthly pension obligations.
“The ₦10 billion allocation is aimed at clearing a significant portion of these outstanding liabilities, signaling a major step toward financial justice for retired civil servants in Delta state,” the governor said.
He described the retirees as men and women “who gave their best years in service to the state. It is only just that they receive what is duly owed to them, and under my watch, their welfare will remain a top priority.”
The development has been welcomed by retiree groups and pensioners across the state, who have long advocated for a resolution to the lingering pension arrears.
