The Oyo State Government has abolished the N4,000 administrative fee previously required for civil servants to access their retirement forms.
This decision, aimed at easing the financial burden on retirees, was announced in a statement issued by the state Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Olusegun Olayiwola, on Friday.
Olayiwola, speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, said the move aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to improving the welfare of retirees.
“Previously, retirees were required to pay N4,000 to obtain a retirement form at the Ministry of Establishments and Training. However, following the governor’s directive, we have designed an electronic form that retirees can now access online, free of charge,” he explained.
The commissioner emphasized that this change reflects the governor’s continued efforts to prioritise retirees’ welfare, noting that Makinde had increased monthly gratuity payments from N250 million to N500 million.
This adjustment, he said, has allowed more retirees to receive their payments on time and without any issues.
“The removal of the N4,000 fee is a significant step towards reducing financial stress on retirees. It also highlights the government’s commitment to streamlining processes and eliminating unnecessary costs,” Olayiwola added.
He further noted that the introduction of e-payment for gratuity benefits ensures seamless and secure transactions, underlining the administration’s dedication to improving the welfare of retirees.
The Permanent Secretary, Olajide Okesade, also expressed his appreciation for the cancellation of the fee, calling it a positive step towards alleviating the financial strain on retirees and demonstrating the government’s genuine concern for their well-being.