Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has won fresh commendation from organised labour following his approval of a 100 per cent increase in gratuity payments for retirees in the state.
The development was confirmed by the Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Oyo State, Comrade Aribatise Adebayo, in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Friday. He disclosed that gratuity payments have been raised from ₦1.5 billion to ₦3 billion.
According to Adebayo, the decision is a clear reflection of Governor Makinde’s worker-friendly disposition and his commitment to the welfare of both serving workers and retirees in the state.
He further noted that the governor has remained consistent with his promise to pay the 13th-month salary at the end of every calendar year.
In the statement, the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) in Oyo State jointly expressed appreciation to the governor for what they described as commendable and worker-friendly gestures.
They specifically applauded the increase in the proposed gratuity payment from ₦1.5 billion to ₦3 billion, describing it as a demonstration of the governor’s deep commitment to the welfare of retirees.
The labour leaders also praised the consistent payment of the 13th-month salary, which they noted has now been paid for the seventh time, as well as the prompt release of subventions.
They added that these actions reaffirm Governor Makinde’s dedication to the well-being of workers and retirees in Oyo State, while also underscoring his unwavering support for industrial harmony in the state.
