The Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has appealed to Governor Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, CON, to consider the payment of an end-of-year bonus for retirees in the state as the year draws to a close.
In a letter addressed to the governor through the Head of Service, the union praised what it described as the governor’s “pensioner-friendly leadership style” and thanked him for prioritising the welfare of senior citizens.
The letter, which was jointly signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Alhaji (Chief) W.O. Oloyede, and the State Secretary, Comrade (Dr) Bola Lawal, J.P., acknowledged the governor’s efforts towards ensuring that pension payments for December were released early.
According to the union, the early payment, which was made between December 21 and 22, allowed many retirees to celebrate Christmas modestly and with dignity.
The NUP also commended Governor Abiodun for the successful hosting of the 2025 Christmas Carol Service held on December 18, describing the event as “graceful” and “first of its kind.”
The union noted that the peaceful December festivities across the state were a testament to the administration’s commitment to security and social stability.
In the letter, the pensioners offered prayers for the governor, wishing him continued good health, wisdom and a prosperous new year.
They also celebrated what they termed the governor’s “goodwill gesture” toward the state workforce, referencing the “bountiful end-of-year bonus” already extended to government employees.
“The gesture shows a caring and understanding leadership personality in Your Excellency,” the letter stated, while urging the governor to extend similar consideration to retirees.
The pensioners stressed that inclusion in the bonus exercise would make them feel valued and recognised as contributors to the state’s development over the years.
They said many retired workers remain vulnerable and rely solely on their monthly pensions to survive, making additional welfare support especially important during the festive season.
According to the union, accessing the same bonus given to the active workforce would enable retirees to “share in the joy of the season like other citizens.”
The union described Governor Abiodun as “a benefactor, God-fearing leader and father figure” to the elderly population, expressing confidence that their request would receive favourable attention.
While acknowledging the government’s financial commitments, the group appealed for compassionate consideration “in the spirit of the yuletide season and the approaching New Year.”
They emphasised that the bonus, if approved, would boost morale and reinforce the administration’s ongoing reputation for compassionate governance.
“Our resolve stands firmly on your maxim: Igbega Ipinle Ogun, ajose gbogbo wa ni,” the letter said, quoting the governor’s well-known slogan on collective development.
The pensioners reaffirmed their loyalty to the state government, pledging continued support for reforms and social initiatives that benefit the general populace.
They concluded by thanking Governor Abiodun in anticipation of a positive response and extended goodwill wishes for a prosperous 2026.
