By Michael Oche
The Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has urged the Federal Government to address the plight of pensioners, including the non-remittance of check-off dues and the increasing cost of living.
The senior citizens also called for the implementation of policies that would alleviate the economic hardships faced by pensioners.
The pensioners’ union made this appeal through its General Secretary, Mr. Franklin Erinle, during FEPPPAN’s 1st National Delegates Conference (NDC) held in Abuja on 17 October 2024.
Specifically, FEPPPAN requested the payment of the promised N25,000 palliative for three months, amounting to N75,000, to cushion the effects of inflation and fuel price increases.
Additionally, the association is advocating for timely and fair pension adjustments, particularly for agencies not yet covered under the consolidated pension scheme.
Erinle highlighted that despite clear provisions in the law, full payment of the check-off dues of some of their members have continued to be unremitted, and urged PTAD to act without further delay. “We have shown understanding and patience, but we should not be taken for granted,” he emphasized.
“We called on the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Registrar of Trade Unions(RTU) and other relevant authorities, to intervene in this matter. It is essential that what is rightfully ours, especially as outlined by the extant laws, is given to us. We have been patient long enough.
“Also, we appeal to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to implement policies and actions that will alleviate the economic hardships in the country. While we acknowledge the recent pension increment for pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS), the new minimum wage, and other palliatives, these efforts will amount to little if the cost of petrol and, by extension, goods and services, continues to rise. We urge the President to act swiftly to improve the economic situation, especially the declining exchange rate, which has significantly worsened hardship in the country.”
Additionally, Erinle encouraged pensioners under the recent regrouping to join FEPPPAN, assuring them that their interests would be well-protected within the union.
At the NDC, the pensioners’ union elected Elder Benjamin Maisamari Amako, President General, Alhaji Rasaki Ope, Deputy Presidents-General (South), Augustine Odihi -Deputy President-General (North), Comrade Bolatito Oyetosho, National PRO, Alhaji Abubakar Bichi, National Auditor I, Ichie Edwin Enyokwa, National Treasurer.
In his acceptance speech, Amako pledged to serve with integrity, transparency, and deep commitment to the welfare of every member of FEPPPAN. He commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing the welfare of pensioners especially in the recent approval of N32,000 pension increase. He also praised PTAD efforts in ensuring prompt payment of pensions and reiterated the call for all FEPPPAN members check-off dues be paid in full, warning that their patience and understanding may run out if the situation continues.
“I will ensure that our voice is not only heard but acted upon. I will advocate for timely and fair pension adjustments, particularly for those agencies not yet covered under the consolidated pension scheme. We must engage with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) to ensure that no pensioner is left behind in receiving what’s rightfully ours,” Amako added.
