, Ebonyi State Council, has endorsed Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for a second term in office, applauding his administration for its developmental policies and commitment to the welfare of retired workers in the state.){kind=link}
By Amaka Okafor
The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ebonyi State Council, has endorsed Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for a second term in office, applauding his administration for its developmental policies and commitment to the welfare of retired workers in the state.
The pensioners announced their endorsement on Thursday in Abakaliki, the state capital, citing the governor’s efforts in clearing outstanding pension and gratuity arrears dating back to 1996 as one of the major reasons for their decision.
The endorsement was formalised through a motion moved by the NUP Chairman in Afikpo Local Government Area, Mr Onyia Uchen, and seconded by the Chairman of the union in Ohaukwu LGA, Mrs Okabe Ifeyinwa Otubo.
Speaking at the event, the National President of NUP, Comrade Godwin Abumisi, who was represented by the Deputy National President, Abdulahi Onuh, commended Governor Nwifuru for what he described as a remarkable intervention in addressing the longstanding financial challenges confronting retired workers.
Abumisi noted that the settlement of pension and gratuity arrears accumulated over three decades had demonstrated the governor’s concern for senior citizens, describing him as one of the most pensioner-friendly governors in Nigeria.
He urged the pensioners to reciprocate the governor’s gesture by supporting his administration and backing his re-election bid in 2027, stressing that the welfare of retirees should remain a major consideration in assessing political leadership.
The union also expressed appreciation to the state government for recognising the contributions of retired public servants and taking steps to address their welfare concerns, noting that the payment of outstanding entitlements had restored hope and confidence among pensioners.
Responding, Governor Nwifuru, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezuruike, thanked the pensioners for the endorsement and recognition of his administration’s efforts, assuring them of his continued commitment to their welfare.
The governor stated that his administration valued the support and prayers of senior citizens, adding that their show of appreciation would encourage the government to do more. He stressed that “gratitude remains application for more.”