National Pension Commission Aims to Increase Pensions for Public Service Retirees

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By DAYO ADESULU 

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has announced efforts to ensure that public service retirees receive pension increments as mandated by the Nigerian Constitution. This update was provided by the Acting Director General of PenCom, Ms. Omolola Oloworararan, during a recent event in Lagos.

Ms. Oloworararan emphasized the commission’s dedication to ensuring that pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and other pension arrangements benefit from the constitutional provisions for pension increments. She stated, “We are working to ensure that pensioners benefit from pension increments provided for in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”

The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees pensioners the right to periodic reviews of their pensions. However, the Federal Government and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCTA) have not fulfilled their constitutional obligation to review pensions every five years. This lack of compliance has become a pressing issue for retirees across the nation.

The Pension Reform Act (PRA) of 2014 outlines the functions and powers of PenCom, which include regulating and supervising the effective administration of pension matters and retirement benefits in Nigeria. Despite these provisions, PenCom has yet to issue specific regulations governing the review of pensions for federal government employees and the FCTA.

The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) has been vocal in its demand for the implementation of constitutional provisions regarding pension increases. The union has urged civil society organizations (CSOs) to take legal action before the National Industrial Court of Nigeria to ensure that the Federal Government and the FCTA adhere to their obligations through PenCom and the Pension Transitional Administration Department (PTAD).

Alhassan Musa, the NUP Secretary in Kaduna State, described the situation of retirees as “pathetic.” He noted that while some retirees in Kaduna State receive a minimum pension of ₦30,000 per month, many others, especially those under the federal government, receive as little as ₦10,000.

Musa stated, “The union proposed a 50 percent increment, even under the defunct ₦30,000 national minimum wage. We anticipate that this increment will be approved in line with the new ₦70,000 national minimum wage.”

Musa emphasized the need for pensioners to enjoy the same benefits as active workers, asserting, “If a worker is receiving ₦70,000 as a minimum salary, then pensioners should also receive the same.” He highlighted the challenges faced by retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme, many of whom have not received their benefits after retiring in the last decade.

As PenCom works towards ensuring compliance with constitutional mandates for pension adjustments, the plight of retirees remains a significant concern. The push for equitable pension benefits underscores the need for systemic reforms to address the challenges faced by retired public servants in Nigeria. The ongoing advocacy by the NUP and civil society organizations will be crucial in driving meaningful change for the nation’s pensioners.

Here’s a more detailed exploration of the issues surrounding pensions in Nigeria, the role of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), and the broader implications for retirees and the economy:

Nigeria’s pension system is primarily governed by the Pension Reform Act (PRA) of 2014, which established a framework for the administration of pensions in the country. The Act introduced the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which mandates that both employers and employees contribute to pension funds during an employee’s working life. This system aims to ensure that retirees have a reliable source of income after leaving the workforce.

The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended, includes provisions that guarantee pensioners the right to periodic reviews of their pensions. This is intended to ensure that pensions remain relevant in light of inflation and changes in the cost of living. However, the implementation of these constitutional rights has been inconsistent, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among retirees.

1. **Inadequate Pension Increments:** Many retirees have not seen the necessary adjustments to their pensions, which can leave them struggling financially. The failure to review pensions every five years as mandated by the Constitution exacerbates these issues, particularly in the context of rising living costs.

2. **Delayed Benefits:** Retirees under the CPS often face delays in accessing their benefits. Alhassan Musa highlighted that many retirees, especially those who left the workforce in the past decade, have yet to receive their accrued benefits. This situation creates financial insecurity and stress for those who have dedicated their lives to public service.

3. **Low Minimum Pensions:** The disparity in minimum pension amounts is significant. While some retirees in specific states may receive a minimum pension of ₦30,000, many others receive much less, creating an inequality that is difficult to justify. The call for a standardized minimum pension aligns with the idea that all retirees should enjoy a dignified standard of living.

The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights of retirees. The union has been vocal about the need for the government to adhere to constitutional provisions regarding pension increments. Their advocacy is vital in bringing attention to the plight of pensioners and pushing for reform.

– **Legal Action:** There is a growing movement among civil society organizations to pursue legal claims to enforce pension rights. This includes public interest litigation aimed at compelling the government to fulfill its obligations under the law.

– **Public Awareness:** Advocacy from groups like the NUP raises public awareness about the challenges faced by pensioners, which can garner support from the broader community and influence policy changes.

The issues surrounding pensions extend beyond individual retirees; they also have broader implications for Nigeria’s economic stability:

– **Consumer Spending:** Retirees with inadequate pensions may have limited disposable income, which can impact consumer spending and, by extension, economic growth. Ensuring that pensioners receive fair and adequate pensions can stimulate local economies.

– **Social Stability:** Addressing pension grievances is essential for social stability. Discontent among retirees can lead to protests and unrest, which could disrupt societal harmony and economic activities.

– **Government Credibility:** The ability of the government to effectively manage pension schemes and respond to the needs of retirees is crucial for maintaining public trust. Failure to address these issues can erode confidence in government institutions.

1. **Regulatory Reforms:** There is a pressing need for PenCom to develop clear regulations and directives regarding pension reviews and adjustments. Establishing a transparent process for pension increments could help ensure compliance with constitutional mandates.

2. **Collaboration with Stakeholders:** Engaging with unions, civil society organizations, and retirees themselves can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced and promote collaborative solutions.

3. **Monitoring and Accountability:** Implementing mechanisms for monitoring pension disbursements and holding relevant authorities accountable can help reduce delays and ensure that retirees receive their benefits in a timely manner.

The situation surrounding pensions in Nigeria remains complex and multifaceted. As the National Pension Commission works towards ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions, the advocacy efforts of groups like the Nigerian Union of Pensioners will be crucial in driving meaningful change. Addressing the challenges faced by retirees is not only a matter of social justice but also essential for the economic and political stability of the nation.

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