By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday approved new pension harmonization for pensioners in the state, breaking a 20-year record since the last pension adjustment.
Governor Ododo gave the approval at the Government House conference hall in Lokoja while addressing pensioners on the Pension Lift Report submitted by the Head of Civil Service. He announced a harmonization allowance of ten thousand Naira for all pensioners in Kogi State.
This groundbreaking decision underscores Governor Ododo’s commitment to improving the lives of Kogi State citizens, particularly pensioners, as he prioritizes initiatives aimed at enhancing their well-being.
In another development, Governor Ododo also announced that all pensioners in the state will be covered under the Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme. According to him, this measure ensures that pensioners will have access to quality healthcare, further improving their overall well-being.
The State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Mr. Ohida Otaru, expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for granting the union an audience after a 20-year wait and for the subsequent pension adjustments. Mr. Otaru praised the governor’s prudent use of state resources to positively impact citizens and commended his commitment to paying 100% of salaries to local government staff.
He specifically lauded the governor’s pension adjustments, noting that they would greatly enhance the welfare of senior citizens.
The State Head of Service, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Governor Ododo’s dedication to prioritizing retirees’ welfare.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Comrade Onu Edoka, praised Governor Ododo’s swift approval of the new pension harmonization and the N72,500 minimum wage for workers, demonstrating his dedication to the well-being of the people.
