Oyo State Disburses N37bn in Gratuities and Death Benefits to Retirees Since 2019

Governor Seyi Makinde's administration hits N37 billion mark in payments to retired teachers and local government staff with a fresh N3 billion disbursement.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 8:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from LEADERSHIP News

Milestone Reached in Pensioner Welfare and Debt Settlement

The Oyo State Government has reached a significant fiscal milestone in its efforts to settle outstanding liabilities owed to its retired workforce. According to official data released by the state on Wednesday, over N37 billion has been funneled into the payment of gratuities and death benefits since Governor Seyi Makinde took office in 2019. This sustained financial commitment is part of a broader administrative strategy to clear the backlog of retirement entitlements that had previously accumulated, providing much needed relief to thousands of elderly citizens across the state.

Disbursement of N3 Billion for Local Government and Teaching Staff

The latest phase of this financial rollout occurred on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with the distribution of N3 billion to eligible retirees. This specific tranche was targeted at retired primary school teachers and staff from the various local government areas. Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige, Chairman of the Local Government Staff Pension Board, confirmed that the funds have been successfully allocated to beneficiaries under the state and local government pension schemes, ensuring that those who served the public sector receive their legal entitlements.

Decentralization of Payment to Ease Pensioner Burden

In a shift aimed at improving the "customer experience" for retirees, the state has implemented a decentralized payment process. Ige explained that the disbursement is now handled across the state’s various geopolitical zones rather than being centralized in the state capital. This mechanical change is intended to eliminate the significant physical stress and financial costs associated with long distance travel, allowing pensioners to access their funds closer to their primary residences.