House of Reps Pushes for Timely Pension Pay and Relief for Struggling Retirees
The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to quickly implement the approved pension increases and release all withheld relief funds meant for pensioners across Nigeria.
This demand came after Rep. Ibrahim Ayokunle raised a motion highlighting the difficulties faced by many retirees who are yet to receive their promised payments. Despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approving a ₦25,000 wage award and a ₦32,000 pension increment in October 2023, many pensioners have not benefited from these increases.
Rep. Ayokunle pointed out that pensioners are facing tough times due to low income, rising costs, and health problems. He said that delaying these payments goes against the country’s constitution, which promises social justice and care for all citizens.
The House called on key government agencies including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Humanitarian Services, Central Bank of Nigeria, Office of the Accountant-General, and the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate to act without delay.
To ensure pensioners get what they deserve, the House recommended:
• A full review of pension payments by the Ministry of Labour and the National Pension Commission
• Setting up a special team to monitor payments and handle complaints
• Encouraging state governments to prioritize pensioners’ welfare too
• Closer cooperation between pensioner groups and government bodies
• Oversight by House committees to make sure all these steps are followed
The House of Representatives reaffirmed its commitment to protect the rights and well-being of Nigeria’s senior citizens, urging swift action to ease their struggles.