Pensioners thank Uzodimma for prompt payment of pension, gratuity

…Pledges continuous support

In a massive show of profound gratitude to the Governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for prompt payment of pension and gratuity to Imo senior citizens, progressive civil service reforms and delivery of critical infrastructures to the state, the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Umunoha/Azara ward, in Mbaitoli visited the Office of the Deputy Governor in courtesy.

Welcoming the Senior citizens on behalf ofGovernor  Hope Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere  Ekomaru expressed gratitude for the visit, their meritorious service to the state and commended the pensioners for their continued interest in the development and progress of the state.

In her address, Lady Ekomaru encouraged them to continue to make their selfless contributions to the state, by directing the youths and advising the government when necessary, stressing that their experience remains invaluable.

The deputy governor also reminded them of the importance of political participation, saying, “remember, politics and development go hand in hand, so, do not keep off from political participation, because, if we don’t determine who governs us, other people will do it without our consent and their decision will determine the level of development we benefit from the government.

“All we owe the governor is our support and prayers. So, do not relent in your support for the 3-R Shared Prosperity Administration”, the deputy governor advised the pensioners.

She also called on the pensioners to help in building strong family institution, by living up to their family responsibilities, instilling moral discipline in their children and other young ones.

The Deputy Governor hinted that the construction of the Nwaorieubi – Ukwuorji road will commence soon, emphasising that work will start immediately the mopping up of the remnants of insecurity in the area is completed, urging the people to exercise more patience and hope.

The leader of the  delegation and  Chairman of the Umunoha Pensioners, Mr. Samuel Osuafor, in his earlier address thanked the deputy governor for the audience, while showering praises on Governor Hope Uzodimma for his good governance.

Mr. Osuafor made particular emphasis on the Governor’s prompt payment of pensions and gratuities, especially, the  clearing of backlog of pension and gratuity arrears, dating back to about 20 years.

He consequently expressed the innermost gratitude of Imo pensioners, especially those from Umunoha/Azara ward.

He also praised the Governor on other feats achieved by his administration in education, road infrastructure, human capital development, youths and women empowerment and health, while appreciating the deputy governor for attracting solar powered lights to the community, roofing the Umunoha People’s Assembly, Women Wing’s Multi Purpose Hall and assisting the youths in the community and beyond in different areas of life endeavour.

A prominent member of the group, Chief Anthony Amadi, in thanking the Governor for his efficient service delivery in the state, enrolling them into the free Imo State Health Insurance Scheme and saving them money, however, pleaded that he does more with emphasis on payment of gratuity to some of their members who are yet to receive theirs, explaining that they have come to thank the Governor, so that he can do more.

The Principal Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Pastor Chris Akushie witnessed the visit.