Osun Pensioners Endorse Adeleke for Second Term, Cite Welfare Achievements

 Sunday Okunade

Pensioners across Osun State have unanimously endorsed Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term in office, describing his administration as one that has significantly improved their welfare and well-being. The endorsement was announced during a gathering of pensioners in Osogbo, the state capital, where members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) commended the governor’s commitment to their needs.

Speaking at the event, the Osun State Chairman of the NUP, Alhaji Ola Odefisayo, expressed gratitude to Governor Adeleke for implementing policies that have made life more comfortable for retirees. He particularly praised the governor for enrolling pensioners in the state's free healthcare programme and ensuring the prompt payment of pensions and related allowances.

Odefisayo also lauded the administration for addressing outstanding financial obligations inherited from previous governments. According to him, the payment of half-salary arrears owed to pensioners, alongside the monthly ₦10,000 support initiative and other welfare measures, has restored confidence among retirees and improved their standard of living.

On behalf of the pensioners, Odefisayo formally declared their support for Governor Adeleke’s re-election bid and prayed for continued success in his leadership of the state. 

He also presented a list of requests to the governor, including the provision of a new bus for the union, sponsorship opportunities for pilgrimages to Jerusalem and Mecca, greater inclusion in political appointments, and consideration of their children for employment and public appointments among others.

In his response, Governor Adeleke  expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the Union for their public declaration of confidence in his administration. He said he was deeply honoured by the overwhelming support shown for the continuation of his government, describing the endorsement as a strong indication that the administration’s efforts are being recognized and appreciated by the people.

The governor noted that the challenges faced by retirees was one of the major issues confronting his administration upon assuming office, stressing that pensioners deserve the prompt payment of their pensions and outstanding entitlements, a conviction that has continued to guide his policies and actions in office.

According to him, this commitment informed the settlement of outstanding half-salary arrears owed to retirees as well as the payment of the monthly ₦25,000 wage award to pensioners. He emphasized that these measures were part of broader efforts aimed at improving the welfare and living conditions of retired workers across the state.

The governor also highlighted several achievements recorded by his administration in support of pensioners and workers. These include the enrollment of retirees in the Osun Health Insurance Scheme and the presentation of cheques to beneficiaries of deceased employees under the group life assurance scheme, among other initiatives designed to provide social and economic support.

Adeleke pledged to sustain policies that improve living standards, expand access to healthcare, strengthen economic opportunities, and ensure inclusive development across the state. Reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of both pensioners and workers, he stated that workers’ welfare remains a top priority in his re-election agenda.

He therefore urged residents of Osun to turn out in large numbers on August 15 to vote for continuity, saying this would help consolidate progress already made in pension administration and other sectors.