Senior citizens, represented by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Ogun State council, have formally requested the State government to approve the long-delayed consequential review of pensions so they can cope with the country’s current economic difficulties.
They argue that this approval would boost their purchasing power and increase the security and respectability of pensioners throughout the state.
In a written appeal sent to Governor Dapo Abiodun, delivered through Head of Service Kehinde Onasanya, the retirees, whose letter was jointly signed by NUP chairman Waheed Oloyede and secretary Bola Lawal, and shared with DAILY POST on Monday, complained that their current income is insufficient to buy food or necessary medications for the many health issues affecting the elderly.
They maintained that their request aligns with the 2019 federal government circular concerning the Consequential Adjustments of Pensions.
DAILY POST notes that the federal government had previously sanctioned pension adjustments for retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme, resulting from the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage Act of 2019.
The letter mentioned: “We particularly want to express our thanks for the following major actions: The payment of accumulated gratuities, up to 2019, to beneficiaries in Ogun State.”
“This action has brought relief and respect to those who dedicated themselves to serving the State.”
“The complete implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in Ogun State starting from July 2nd, 2025, and the approval of financial relief (palliative provisions) for retirees who left service starting July 2nd, 2025, ensuring they are not disadvantaged by the shift to the new scheme.”
“Given these praiseworthy achievements, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Ogun State Council, feels encouraged and hopeful. However, we respectfully ask you for your compassionate approval of the long and highly anticipated Consequential Review of Pensions in accordance with the 2019 Federal Government Circular on Consequential Adjustments of Pensions.”
“Your kind approval will significantly improve the purchasing capabilities of the affected Pensioners, whose current earnings are not enough for food, much less for buying the required drugs for the various health problems afflicting the elderly. The approval will enhance the security and dignity of pensioners in Ogun State.”
They also urged Governor Abiodun to consider including retirees from tertiary institutions who voluntarily left service earlier but met the requirement of 35 years in service or the mandatory age of 60 years, and who fall under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS), to be enrolled in the scheme and paid accordingly.
In addition, the retirees called for a continuous, transparent communication process regarding the full implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to ensure a smooth transition for future retirees entering the system.
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