Governor Abiodun Implements Contributory Pension Scheme, Resolves Ogun Workers’ Strike with Major Reforms
csrreporters 
In a decisive move to end the ongoing workers’ strike and restore industrial harmony, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced the full implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), effective from July 2, 2025. The announcement was made on Thursday, July 18, during a crucial meeting with labour leaders at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun described the move as a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to the welfare of civil and public servants. “This is not just a policy adjustment—it is a commitment to ensuring that our workers are not deprived of what is rightfully theirs,” he stated.
To tackle outstanding pension liabilities, the state government has introduced a 10-year repayment plan split into two five-year tranches. The plan, which will be backed by legislation, is expected to run until 2035, ensuring continuity beyond the current administration.
In addition to pension reforms, the governor approved the long-awaited implementation of staff promotions for 2023 and 2024. Workers promoted in 2023 will begin receiving salary increases by September 2025, while those promoted in 2024 will receive theirs by December 2025—three months ahead of the original timeline.
The developments follow an indefinite strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ogun State earlier in the week, citing non-remittance of pension deductions, failure to implement the national minimum wage, and neglect of other long-standing agreements.
NLC State Chairman, Comrade Demola Hammed-Benco, had directed civil and public servants to withdraw their services, accusing the government of violating the 2008 Ogun State Pension Reform Law (amended in 2013), which mandates full CPS compliance.
Governor Abiodun, while labeling the strike as “unnecessary and avoidable,” emphasized the need for continuous dialogue over confrontation. “There was no need for industrial action when we could have sat down to iron out the issues,” he said.
Despite the criticism, the governor adopted a conciliatory tone, thanking labour unions for their eventual cooperation and reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustaining Ogun State’s reputation as an investment-friendly state. He added that structures are already in place to ensure a seamless rollout of the CPS, securing the future of retirees.
Labour leaders at the meeting—including Comrades Hammed-Benco (NLC), Hakeem Lasisi (TUC), and Isa Olude (JNC)—welcomed the reforms and praised the governor’s responsiveness. They expressed regret over the strike’s impact and clarified that the action aimed solely at protecting workers’ rights.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties pledging renewed cooperation and setting the stage for sustained industrial peace and long-term collaboration in the state’s public sector.