The Oyo State government has officially initiated the e-payment of gratuity benefits for retirees, a move aimed at enhancing the efficiency and security of the payment process.
This announcement was made in a statement released on Saturday, August 31, 2024, by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
According to the statement, the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Olusegun Olayiwola, highlighted this development during a three-day data capturing and e-payment exercise held at the Nigeria Union of Pensioners Building in Ibadan.
Olayiwola emphasized that the new e-payment system would facilitate a seamless and secure payment experience, minimizing the risk of disruptions.
The initiative focuses on capturing and validating the data of retirees from specific periods, including June to December 2014 and June to December 2019. Olayiwola assured that arrangements are in place to accommodate additional retirees promptly.
In a display of commitment to the welfare of retirees, Olayiwola reiterated Governor Seyi Makinde's dedication to fostering a collaborative relationship with the Nigerian Union of Pensioners in Oyo State.
Dr. Olusegun Abatan, the State Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, praised the advantages of the e-payment system, noting its potential to enhance security, accuracy, and speed in the distribution of gratuities.
He commended Governor Makinde for his timely disbursement of gratuity funds since taking office in 2019.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Establishments and Training, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade, also expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde and other officials for their consistent efforts in ensuring the timely disbursement of wage awards and benefits to retirees and civil servants.
He highlighted the benefits of e-payment, including faster access to funds and the elimination of risks associated with physical cheque payments, such as theft or loss.