Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin, Edo state.
Edo State pensioners are ecstatic following Governor Godwin Obaseki’s announcement of a 13th-month salary for retirees, coupled with gratuity payments for nearly 400 former government workers. The governor’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens was further buttressed with the initiation of a free health insurance program, aimed specifically at pensioners.
Scheduled for disbursement on December 27, 2023, the 13th-month salary is a tangible outcome of Governor Obaseki’s promise to enhance the working and living conditions of both active and retired workers in Edo State. The decision to extend this financial benefit to pensioners aligns with the governor’s dedication to recognizing their invaluable contributions to the development of the state and the nation.
Truth Live News gathered that Chairman of Edo Pensioners, Samuel Okhulegbe, expressed gratitude during the enrollment kickoff for the free health insurance at the Government House in Benin City. He praised Governor Obaseki for consistently prioritizing the timely payment of pensions and gratuities, affirming the governor as a true ally of pensioners.
Governor Obaseki reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, emphasizing their pivotal role in the nation’s progress. Addressing retirees, he stated, “As a government, we took it as a priority to put the interest of pensioners on the front burner, as the way we treat pensioners will be a pointer to the way our workers will behave, making them trust the system.”
The governor also highlighted the success of the Contributory Pension Scheme implemented since January 2017, with over N5 billion already contributed. He acknowledged the historical backlog of unpaid gratuities, revealing his administration’s efforts in settling this long-standing issue, as evidenced by the recent approval for almost 400 ex-government workers.
Governor Obaseki emphasized the importance of retirees’ health, noting that healthcare expenses often burden pensioners. In response, the government has included pensioners in the health insurance scheme, effective from January 2024. The governor urged retirees to register promptly, assuring them that the state would cover their premiums, reiterating, “Retirement is not condemnation to death.”
In a proactive move, Governor Obaseki outlined plans to enforce mandatory insurance coverage for workers in companies employing more than five individuals, starting January 2024. He emphasized the government’s commitment to using taxpayers’ money for the benefit of the people and urged retirees to take advantage of the free health insurance scheme.
As detractors criticize the use of public funds for these initiatives, Governor Obaseki remains resolute, declaring, “If you are a retiree in Edo State, come and register for your health insurance scheme. Because you have served our State, it is free for you. Our government will pay your premium for you; you don’t need to pay for the services. Retirement is not condemnation to death. I thank you for your support and we are concerned about your health.”
The accompanying photo captured the moment of camaraderie between Governor Godwin Obaseki and a pensioner during the launch of the free health insurance enrollment on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at the Government House in Benin City.