The Federal Government said on Monday it was aware of the hardship faced by pensioners in the country and was “unwaveringly poised” to reposition pension administration in the country.
Speaking through the Permanent Secretary, General Services in his office, Roy Ugo, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said the federal government was committed to the improvement of pensioners’ welfare.
He said: “Pensioners deserve better treatment and good life having served and retired meritoriously in the service of their fatherland. It is in this regard that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to the improvement of the welfare of pensioners in this country.
“Despite the challenges being experienced in pension administration in this country, government is unwaveringly poised to reposition pension administration in other to give pensioners the good quality life they deserve after retirement.
“Government is aware that hardship being faced by Nigerian pensioners especially those that bothered on prompt payment of pension and is doing everything possible to correct the anomaly. It is never the intention of government to inflict hardship on its senior citizens.
“You will agree with me that Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) has been working very hard to reposition pension administration. I therefore implore you to be patient with government. This administration is committed to moving the country forward and the faith and confidence that things will turn out good in the no distant time is not in doubt and so. We will continue to ask for your support, patience and encouragement.”
Speaking at the event, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Abubakar Wabba, emphasised the need for government to abide by the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution by ensuring a constant review of pensions in accordance with the provisions of the constitution that pensions be reviewed every five years.
