…Orders Prompt Implementation of Overdue Pension Increases
By Attah Ede
President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, directed the immediate rollout of free healthcare for low-income retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The President further mandated prompt implementation of overdue pension increases and a minimum pension guarantee to protect vulnerable retirees.
He noted that the issues remain a critical component of social protection and dignity in retirement.
This was contained in a statement by the his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, in Abuja, on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the directive was issued after Mr. President was briefed by Ms Omolola Oloworaran, the Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom).
President Tinubu therefore mandated the PenCom D-G to urgently resolve the longstanding police pension issue, emphasising that members of the police force who serve and protect the nation deserve to retire with dignity and peace of mind.
Thereafter, Oloworaran briefed the president on efforts to preserve pension fund value amid inflation and economic pressures.
The DG enumerated plans to enable foreign currency contributions, allowing Nigerians in the diaspora to participate in the pension scheme.
She also highlighted upcoming reforms to boost retiree welfare and expand pension coverage nationwide.
Tinubu welcomed the initiatives and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and social protection for ordinary Nigerians.
“During the briefing, the DG updated the President on a suite of transformative pension initiatives to enhance retiree welfare and expand the Pension Scheme’s reach.
“President Tinubu strongly supported the reforms, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and protection for ordinary Nigerians”, Onanuga stated.
Recalled that retired police officers recently protested over poor pensions and living conditions across the country, where they called for the removal of the Nigeria Police Force from the CPS, citing systemic anomalies.
