The House of Representatives has expressed serious concern over the continued delay in the implementation of pension increases and the non-release of approved palliatives for retired federal workers.
This followed a motion moved during Wednesday’s plenary by the Deputy Majority Whip, Hon. Ayokunle Isiaka, who urged the Federal Government to take immediate action to address the worsening conditions faced by pensioners nationwide.
Hon. Isiaka, in his lead debate, lamented that retirees, many of whom contributed to national growth and development, are being neglected in their time of need, facing escalating hardships under the current economic climate.
He recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in October 2023, approved a wage award of N25,000 and an additional pension increment of N32,000 for federal retirees. However, many pensioners, he noted, have yet to benefit from these measures.
“The House notes with concern that these well-intentioned interventions have not translated into relief for the majority of our senior citizens,” Isiaka stated. “Many continue to live in dire conditions without access to adequate healthcare, food, or shelter.”
Quoting constitutional provisions that guarantee social welfare and justice, the lawmaker decried the federal government’s inaction, warning that it undermines the principles of equity and could breed discontent among a vulnerable population.
He also pointed to a growing number of complaints and unanswered petitions from pensioners and advocacy groups, which he said have been met with silence from relevant agencies.
In its resolution, the House called on the Federal Government to, without delay, implement the approved pension adjustments and release all outstanding palliatives. It also urged key institutions, including the Ministries of Finance and Humanitarian Affairs, the Office of the Accountant General, the CBN, and PTAD, to fast-track the process.
Additionally, the lawmakers charged the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the National Pension Commission (PenCom), and other relevant agencies to carry out a comprehensive audit of pension disbursements to ensure transparency and accountability.
The House further proposed the establishment of a special Task Force to oversee the full implementation of pension-related decisions and swiftly respond to complaints and concerns from retirees.
Lawmakers also appealed to State Governments to take a cue from the federal initiative and prioritize pension payments and welfare schemes for retired state workers.
In a move to ensure effective monitoring, the House mandated a joint oversight by its Committees on Finance, Pensions, Labour and Employment, Humanitarian Services, and Legislative Compliance.
They also encouraged pensioners’ unions and advocacy organisations to intensify their engagement with authorities and continue advocating for the rights and dignity of Nigeria’s senior citizens.
