Some retirees and civil servants have commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for approving a 100 per cent gratuity payment for retiring federal civil servants.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the implementation of a transformative exit benefit scheme, granting retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equal to 100 per cent of their total annual emolument, effective from January.

Some workers and retirees who spoke to journalists in Abuja on Sunday described the move as a welcome development.

Thompson Yamput, who retired in February, said the move showed that the government was sensitive to the plights of citizens.

”I put in only 15 years in the service and retired on February 13. Of course, nothing much has accrued for me as a pension considering the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

”I really appreciate the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, just as I thank God for his loving kindness toward us,” Mr Yamput said.

Another retiree, Sarah Onifade, said the government should not only make policies but must ensure that funds are available to facilitate implementation.

A civil servant, Segun Idowu, said the decision was a well-deserved recognition of the hard work and dedication of civil servants.

He said the gesture would boost civil servants’ morale and motivate them to serve with greater passion.

”This is a big win for federal workers, grateful for this administration’s support. It is long overdue, but better late than never, and this will help cushion the transition to retirement,” Mr Idowu said

Another civil servant, Eugenia Kolo, described the resolution as a breath of fresh air for federal government workers.

According to her, this decision speaks volumes about the government’s commitment to our welfare.

Paul Ifeanyichukwu, a civil servant, called for the prompt implementation of the resolution.

Mr Ifeanyichukwu lamented that some government decisions or resolutions had been stalled or delayed and called for prompt implementation to make them a reality.

”I am not moved to rejoice yet because we have seen decisions by the government that have lingered, just like the wage award, which we are still battling to get in full. We pray that this one will not drag,” he said.

The scheme was part of the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the welfare framework of the civil service.

According to the federal government, it is also to ensure that officers with at least 10 years of service retire with dignity and financial security.

(NAN)