Pensioners in Ogun state have decries delays in the implementation of the consequential adjustment in pension, as approved by the federal government circular since 2019.
Speaking at the celebration of the 2025 Pensioners Day, with the theme, ‘Empowering Pensioners,
Empowering Communities’, held in Abeokuta, Tuesday, the state chairman, Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Ogun state council, Waidi Oloyede, stated that, though the state had set up a pension review committee in 2022, he therefore said “nothing has been heard from the committee”.
Oloyede added that, while mainstream workers have been enjoying various wages increase since year 2020, the retirees have been left to depend on meagre monthly pension.
“The long pause in the progression of activities towards the actualization of the much awaited consequential review of pensions of the long standing pensioners has greatly agitated the minds of the affected.
“The paultry pensions being paid is nothing to write home about in the wake of the present harsh economic situation.
” The vulnerable aged is ravaged by various attendant health challenges, whereas the cost of food and drugs continue to soar higher and higher on a daily basis making it out of reach to many, resulting in imminent deaths every moment “, he said
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of State Pension, Arinola Adetayo, assured the pensioners that plans are underway to address the pension gap, adding that their sacrifices will not be in vain.
“Your welfare is not taken for granted as efforts are ongoing to ensure sustainable pension reforms to make life easier for our retirees
“The government has not defaulted in the monthly payment and is committed to your welfare. We are aware of the genuine concerns and we appreciates your matured and constructive engagement with the government.
” You have worked during your youthful days and it’s time to enjoy the fruit of your labour”, she added
Other stakeholders who spoke at the event includes the State Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Hameed Benco, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Akeem Lasisi and Joint Negotiation Committee (INC) Chairman, Comrade Isa Olude.
