From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing a revised pension scheme aligned with the new national minimum wage.
Governor Makinde made this assurance on Monday, January 6, during the annual Interfaith Service held at the Oyo State Government Secretariat, Ibadan, to mark the beginning of the new administrative year.
He stressed that the revised pension scheme would be finalized after comprehensive consultations and negotiations, emphasizing fairness and inclusivity in addressing the concerns of retirees.
Acknowledging the contributions of pensioners to the state’s development, Governor Makinde vowed to ensure the new scheme reflects their years of sacrifice, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to equity. He also extended gratitude to civil servants for their support, which he said has fueled efforts to implement initiatives aimed at advancing Oyo State.
The governor congratulated 45 newly appointed permanent secretaries, noting that 80 percent of the appointments were based on merit. He announced their swearing-in ceremony would take place on Monday, January 13, 2025, urging them to play active roles in driving the administration’s developmental agenda.
In his goodwill message, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, represented by Deputy Speaker Mohammed Fadeyi, commended the administration’s impactful policies. He reiterated the legislature’s commitment to supporting programs that enhance the state’s growth.
Similarly, the Chairmen of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), Kayode Martins and Bosun Oladele, lauded the governor for ensuring regular salary payments, implementing the new minimum wage, and executing developmental projects across the state. They encouraged workers to remain committed to Oyo State’s progress.
Religious leaders at the event, including Reverend Israel Adeoye of the Christian Council of Nigeria and Alhaji Bello Rufai, Chief Imam of the Government House Mosque, urged civil servants to uphold ethical standards and integrity in their duties.
State Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni (Mni), praised the governor’s consistent efforts in promptly paying salaries and emoluments. She called on civil servants to maintain discipline, loyalty, and transparency in their responsibilities to support the administration’s vision for Oyo State.
The event featured special prayers for the state government, readings from the Bible and Quran, and other highlights celebrating unity and progress.