BY ANTHONIA EMMANUEL
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to urgently implement the approved pension adjustments and release outstanding palliatives meant for retired civil servants.
The appeal was made during plenary following a motion of urgent national concern moved by Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle, who lamented the continued financial hardship faced by Nigerian pensioners, many of whom are still waiting for the benefits approved months ago.
Ayokunle reminded lawmakers that President Bola Tinubu had, in October 2023, approved a ₦25,000 monthly palliative payment and a ₦32,000 increase in pensions for federal retirees. Despite this, many pensioners have yet to receive either the increment or the relief package.
He stressed that the delay not only worsens the plight of the elderly but also undermines the country’s constitutional duty to promote social welfare and protect vulnerable citizens. “Our senior citizens who served this country diligently now struggle to afford daily essentials and medical care,” Ayokunle said.
The House directed its call to key agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Humanitarian Services, the Office of the Accountant-General, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), urging them to act without further delay.
In its resolution, the House recommended a comprehensive audit of pension payments by the Ministry of Labour and the National Pension Commission. It also proposed setting up a task force to oversee the prompt implementation of pension benefits and to respond to complaints from pensioners nationwide.
Lawmakers further encouraged state governments to align with federal efforts in addressing pension issues and called for collaboration between pensioners’ associations and government agencies for better accountability and advocacy.
Standing committees on Finance, Labour, Pensions, Humanitarian Services, and Legislative Compliance have been mandated to monitor and ensure these resolutions are fully carried out.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigeria’s ageing population, stressing that their dignity must not be compromised.
