The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has called on the federal government to address the delayed payment of a six-month wage award of N25,000 monthly owed to its members across the country.
Unfulfilled Wage Award
Bunmi Ogunkolade, spokesperson for the NUP, highlighted in an interview on Monday in Abuja that the federal government has yet to implement the N25,000 wage award announced for pensioners in 2023. Ogunkolade pointed out that while workers have received their N35,000 wage award for six months, pensioners have not received any of the promised funds.
Call for Inclusion in Minimum Wage Law
Ogunkolade praised President Bola Tinubu for signing the new national minimum wage law but urged that its implementation should also benefit pensioners. He emphasized that pensioners are facing severe economic hardship, which is impacting their health and well-being.
Impact on Pensioners’ Health
The NUP official expressed concern over the health issues faced by many pensioners, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and prostate problems. He criticized the lack of support from state governments and mentioned that some governors have suggested that pensioners should rely on their children for support.
Concerns Over Pension Amounts
Ogunkolade also raised concerns about some pensioners receiving as little as N2,000 monthly despite having retired 15 years ago. He urged state governors to comply with previous directives, including the 33.4 percent increment of 2010 and the regular increments of 2015 and 2019 consequential adjustments.
