The Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP, has expressed concern over the deplorable conditions of public sector retirees in the country as some still receive a meager N500 monthly pension.
Alhassan Musa, Secretary of the NUP in Kaduna State, described the situation as “pathetic”.
He noted that most affected retirees are in precarious conditions after dedicating their lives and services to the nation.
Musa highlighted that pensioners in Southern and oil-producing states are the worst affected, despite receiving substantial allocations from the federation account.
In contrast, pensioners in some Northern states and the FCT receive better pensions, ranging from N3,500 to N18,000 monthly.
However, Musa revealed that retirees in Kaduna State receive a minimum pension of N30,000 monthly, thanks to the state government’s implementation in 2020.
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He hopes for a 50% increment, aligning with the new N70,000 national minimum wage.
Musa emphasized the need for equal benefits for pensioners and workers. He advocated for a minimum pension of N70,000, matching the minimum salary for workers.
The NUP secretary also discussed challenges faced by retirees under the contributory pension scheme, CPS.
According to Musa many are yet to receive their benefits, even after 10 years of retirement.
He attributed this to the failure of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, MDAs, to remit monthly contributions to individual workers’ accounts.
Musa stressed that retirees should receive their pension and lump sum within three months of retirement.
He urged MDAs to remit contributions promptly, ensuring retirees receive their due benefits.
