Gov Aiyedatiwa pledges improved welfare for retired Heads of Service, Permanent Secretaries

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has assured retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in the state of his administration’s continued commitment to their welfare, describing them as senior citizens whose sacrifices laid the foundation for the present development of the state.

The Governor, while receiving members of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in his office on Tuesday, said his administration holds them in high esteem, adding that their wealth of knowledge and experience remains invaluable to governance. He applauded the association for setting up a Development Initiative Committee, promising that any recommendation that aligns with the state’s developmental agenda would be adopted and implemented.

Speaking on their concerns over pensions and entitlements, Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the need for harmonization and upward review to reflect current realities. He assured that government would look into their requests in consultation with the Head of Service, while considering available resources. “We cannot go beyond what we are earning, but we will look at ways to make our senior citizens happier,”.

The Governor also addressed issues raised on their secretariat building in Alagbaka, assuring that the newly constructed edifice would not be affected by the planned facelift of the capital city. He further hinted that the long-awaited constitution of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) board would be concluded soon.

He appreciated the association for their patience and contributions, reaffirmed his readiness to support their programmes and activities whenever called upon.

Earlier, the President of the Association, Mrs Grace Ajayi, who led the delegation to the Governor’s office, appreciated the Governor for appointing some of their members into political positions, particularly as Chairman and Members of the Civil Service Commission.

She solicited for the governor’s intervention to exempt the building from demolition of their newly constructed Secretariat complex in Alakagba.

Beyond their welfare, the association pledged continued partnership with the government by offering professional insights to strengthen policy and governance.

They recalled past contributions on issues such as security, environmental management, and housing development, noting that a recent committee had also submitted recommendations on boosting state investment portfolios. The group commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s developmental strides under the “OUR EASE” agenda and prayed for his administration’s success.

Also speaking, the Financial Secretary of the Association, Mr Lawrence Ibukun lamented that members were being underpaid compared to their counterparts in other Southwest states.

He therefore appealed to the government for harmonization and upward review of their benefits to reflect the realities of today.

In attendance were; The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun.