Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of both serving and retired civil servants in the state.
The Governor pledged during a courtesy visit by the Kogi State chapter of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries of Nigeria.
The event took place on Sunday at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Lokoja.
Expressing gratitude for the services rendered by the retired senior officials, Governor Ododo said, “I consider myself one of the luckiest people on earth.
“Thank you for your years of service to our state and the nation. I appeal to you as our fathers and mothers, please don’t turn your back on us or the system that shaped you over 35 years of service.”
Governor Ododo acknowledged the numerous challenges facing retirees, particularly regarding unpaid gratuities and severance allowances.
He assured the association that his government is committed to addressing these issues.
The Chairman of the Association, Okeme Jibrail Abdullahi, presented six key demands to the Governor.
These included the settlement of outstanding gratuities, payment of severance allowances, harmonization of pensions, provision of land and construction of a secretariat complex, provision of an operational vehicle, and clearance of pension arrears for some members.
In response, Governor Ododo instructed the Association to prepare a proposal for the secretariat project and reaffirmed his administration’s intention to work towards resolving the issues of unpaid entitlements.
The Governor’s dedication to the welfare of retired civil servants was praised by the Association, which commended his administration for the regular and prompt payment of salaries and pensions.
Abdullahi described Ododo’s leadership as visionary and impactful, saying, “Your government has brought relief to the people of Kogi State.
“We can see the progress and the improvements you are building on from your predecessor, Yahaya Bello.”
Governor Ododo further reassured the retirees of his commitment, stating, “This is a government of civil servants. I am a civil servant, and so is the Deputy Governor. We are here to serve you.”
In a special remark, Governor Ododo expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to Kogi State, which he credited for the state’s improved revenue and capacity to deliver good governance.
“President Tinubu is helping us achieve progress; he doesn’t need to campaign in Kogi for 2027, we will reward him with results,” he stated.
The Governor also extended gratitude to his predecessor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, for trusting him with the mantle of leadership.
He urged citizens of Kogi to avoid divisive political rhetoric and instead focus on harnessing the state’s natural resources for the benefit of all.
Governor Ododo’s assurances have rekindled hope among the state’s retired civil servants, who now look forward to the realization of his promises.
