By Abimbola Bamgbose

Since assuming office in 2019, the current administration in Ogun State has disbursed a total of N179.7 billion in pensions and gratuities to retirees at both the state and local government levels.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, who made this known while speaking during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration at the Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, said the backlog of pensions from 2012 to 2017, as well as remittances under the National Housing Scheme, has been cleared to enhance workers’ access to mortgage facilities.

To further support workers’ aspirations for home ownership, Governor Abiodun announced the acquisition of 350 hectares of land at Ijemo/Onisẹla for development under the Sites and Services Scheme.

The estate, to be named Prince Dapo Abiodun Bureaucrats Estate, will be equipped with basic infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity, allowing workers to build affordable homes through mortgage financing.

The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in revitalising the national economy, noting that recent federal reforms have begun to reduce inflation and ease the cost of living.

Governor Abiodun praised the collaboration between the state government and the labour union, saying it has positioned Ogun State as a hub of innovation and economic development.

He urged the workforce to continue their dedication, stressing that the government remains committed to addressing economic challenges and providing infrastructure across the state.

Describing workers as the engine of socio-economic progress, he lauded their role in maintaining industrial harmony and contributing to Ogun’s development.

In his goodwill message, the Federal Controller of Labour in Ogun State, Mr. Andy Egbor, commended workers for their contributions to national growth and praised Ogun State’s labour-friendly policies as a model for other states.

Mr Egbor also called for enhanced collaboration between the state and federal governments to improve workers’ welfare.

Similarly, the Ogun State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Mr. Hameed Benco, highlighted the effects of economic hardship on job security and called on government at all levels to provide low-cost housing, interest-free loans, and establish a market price regulation board to ease the burden on workers.

The Trade Union Congress, TUC, Chairman, Comrade Akeem Lasisi, described the Workers’ Day celebration as a continued struggle for improved welfare.

Mr Lasisi also urged the government to urgently tackle insecurity and intensify economic relief efforts.

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