REPS URGES MINISTRY OF FINANCE TO RELEASE ALL WITHHELD PENSION PALLIATIVES OF NIGERIAN PENSIONERS
21-05-25
By Sadiq Aminu The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Ministry of Finance to immediately release all withheld Pension palliatives of Nigerian Pensioners to alleviate the suffering of pensioners.
The Green Chamber in motion moved by the House of Representatives Deputy Chief Whip Ibrahim Isiaka, frowned at the outright disregard to President Bola Tinubu’s directive for Nigerian Pensioners to be paid Palliatives since October 2023.
According to Mr. Isiaka non-implementation of the approved pension increments and withholding of the pension palliative measures, undermine the constitutional principles and threatens social stability.
“Aware that President Ahmed Tinubu, in October 2023, approved a 25,000 Naira, wage award palliative and an additional 32,000 Naira, pension increase for Federal Pensioners in Nigeria; Concerned that most Pensioners face challenges, including non-payment of government pension increments and withholding essential palliative measures, leading to inadequate income, basic needs inability, and deteriorating health conditions”
The House Deputy Chief Whip, while expressing concerns on the implication of the non-implementation of measures to the nation’s senior citizens, pointed out the notable contributions of Nigerian pensioners to nation-building and the development of Nigeria.
“Numerous appeals and petitions from pensioners and relevant associations have gone unheeded, leading to increased hardship and discontent among Pensioners; Cognizant of the urgent need to address these challenges and uphold the dignity and welfare of Nigerian senior citizens”
Adopting the motion the House urges the Ministry of Labour and Employment and National Pension Commission to conduct a comprehensive audit of pension payments and ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement process.
The House also appealed to all State Governments to emulate Federal Government’s efforts and prioritize
pension payments and welfare programs for their retirees.