Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the payment of a 13th-month pension bonus to all pensioners in the State, as well as a N10,000 one-time welfare support for November, 2026.

Governor Umo Eno disclosed this during the presentation of a Merit Award by the State Council of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, who also endorsed him for re-election in 2027.

Governor Eno, who was particularly impressed by their sense of gratitude and quality organisation, assured that the Government under his leadership will continue to prioritize the welfare of pensioners and elderly citizens in the State.

“This is indeed humbling to me. It shows that you are truly technocrats with a laudable sense of organization. You may be retired but not tired. I celebrate and appreciate you greatly.

“I am now directing that N10,000 be added to the November 2026 pension payment of every pensioner in support of your welfare,” he said.

He urged them to equally enroll in the State’s health insurance scheme, which he said was free for 65-year-olds and above, to enable them to enjoy quality healthcare and a good rest across the state.

Gov noted that he had promised to clear the backlog of gratuities, stressing that N100 billion has so far been paid, from the accumulated N111 billion since 2012, assuring that before the end of his first term, the balance will be cleared.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making funds available to states, which, according to him, has made it possible for him to keep to his promise of clearing the arrears of gratuity.

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Pastor Sylvester Nkodo, thanked the Governor for his compassionate and impactful leadership, describing his commitment to the welfare of the elderly and retired public servants as heartwarming and unprecedented.

He also noted that Gov. Eno’s policies have significantly improved their living standard and lifted them from abject poverty to a life of dignity.

He expressed gratitude to the Governor for the release of over N100 billion for the payment of inherited gratuities dating back to 2012 and prayed that God will grant the wishes of pensioners by granting him a second term in 2027.

Following a motion moved and seconded by Comrade James Inim and Dr. Mrs. Uduak Udoaka, respectively, the pensioners unanimously endorsed President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Umo Eno and other candidates of the APC for re-election in 2027. (Channels)