Nigerian gov approves N10bn for pension arrears

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the release of ₦10 billion to offset long-standing pension arrears owed to retirees in the state.

The move, according to the government, is aimed at clearing arrears that accumulated before the current administration came into office.

The approval was announced following a strategic meeting between the governor, the State Pension Board led by its chairman, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, and the state chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu.

The governor also announced the constitution of a special oversight team to ensure accountability and transparency in the disbursement process. The team will monitor the implementation of the payment and ensure that funds reach the intended beneficiaries promptly and fairly.

During the meeting, the governor emphasised the importance of addressing longstanding issues affecting the state’s retirees, particularly concerning backlogs of unpaid pensions and the transition to the contributory pension scheme.

“So far, my administration has disbursed a total of ₦36.4 billion in pension payments, averaging ₦1.4 billion monthly. Since taking office, the state has not defaulted in its monthly pension obligations.

The ₦10 billion allocation is aimed at clearing a significant portion of these outstanding liabilities, signalling a major step toward financial justice for retired civil servants in Delta State.

“Our retirees are men and women who gave their best years in service to the state. It is only just that they receive what is duly owed to them, and under my watch, their welfare will remain a top priority.”

The development has been welcomed by retiree groups and pensioners across the state, who have long advocated for a resolution to the lingering pension arrears.