AKURE — The Director General of Opomulero Group, Hon. Olasupo Olakunori Michael, has hailed the flag-off of the payment of ₦3.823 billion gratuity to Ondo State retirees who retired in 2020, describing the move as a major welfare intervention that demonstrates Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s determination to bring ease and renewed hope to the people of the state.

Opomulero, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said the payment was significant because it directly addresses a long-standing financial burden on retirees and their families, many of whom have waited for years to receive their legitimate entitlements.

He described the development as a clear example of “government that listens, government that cares and government that acts.”

«“The ₦3.823 billion gratuity payment is more than a financial transaction. It is about restoring dignity, relieving hardship and giving hope to citizens who gave their productive years to the service of Ondo State.»

«“Governor Aiyedatiwa has once again demonstrated that he is determined to bring ease to our people. This is leadership that goes beyond promises; it is leadership that delivers.”»

The Opomulero DG noted that the release of the funds would have a ripple effect across the state, as beneficiaries are expected to deploy the money towards pressing family needs, healthcare, education, housing and other obligations, while also injecting fresh spending into local businesses.

He said the intervention was particularly commendable given the competing financial demands facing the government, adding that prioritising retirees showed that the administration understood the importance of protecting vulnerable citizens.

According to him, retirees should not have to spend their later years worrying about entitlements earned through decades of public service.

«“These men and women served Ondo State when they were in their prime. Their gratuity is not a favour from government; it is an entitlement earned through years of sacrifice and service.»

«“By commencing this payment, Governor Aiyedatiwa is sending a powerful message that the government remembers those who served and will continue to work to clear outstanding obligations.”»

Opomulero further described the flag-off as a major milestone in the administration’s efforts to settle inherited retirement liabilities, noting that every payment made to retirees represents a step towards restoring confidence in the state’s commitment to its workforce.

He urged beneficiaries to remain patient with the implementation process while commending the state government for taking concrete steps to address the backlog.

The DG also called on the people of Ondo State to support policies and programmes of the administration that directly improve living conditions and strengthen the state’s economy.

He said:

«“The real meaning of governance is measured by the difference it makes in the lives of ordinary people. Today, thousands of retirees can look forward to receiving what they have earned.»

«“This is another promise becoming relief. It is another step towards bringing ease to the people of Ondo State. Governor Aiyedatiwa deserves commendation for this bold and people-centred intervention.”»

He expressed optimism that the administration would sustain the momentum in settling outstanding obligations to workers and retirees while pursuing programmes capable of delivering broader economic and social development across Ondo State.