By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Forum of Retirees in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory has condemned the purported registration of a parallel “Association of State Retirees of Nigeria” by the Registrar of Trade Unions, describing the action as unconstitutional and a threat to the unity of pensioners.
Rising from its meeting, the Forum advised the national headquarters of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) to urgently take legal action against what it termed an “unfortunate constitutional violation.” It also urged all state councils to strengthen internal administration and ensure inclusive management of their affairs to prevent disharmony among members.
Addressing Newsmen Hudu Baba Abdullahi, Chairman, Nassarawa State Chapter, Nigerian Union of Pensioners, said the Forum expressed concern over the non-implementation of the N32,000 pension increase and consequential adjustment in several states, noting that pension increment is a constitutional provision under Section 210(3) of the 1999 Constitution as amended. It called on state governments yet to comply to do so immediately to ease the economic hardship facing pensioners.
“On gratuity and death benefits, the Forum commended states that have been consistent in payments to senior citizens while urging others to settle outstanding entitlements “in the name of God” so that retirees can enjoy rest after years of service.
Also speaking Comrade Alhassan Balarabe Musa, Secretary of the United Trade Union and Kaduna State chapter, has expressed concern over the plight of pensioners across the country, citing the registration of a parallel association and persistent delays in the payment of pensions and gratuities.
Speaking after a meeting of pensioners from the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Musa said the gathering was convened to raise awareness among members about the emergence of a group registered as the “Association of State Retirees of Nigeria.”
He noted that while Nigerians have the right to association, a union derives its mandate from law and remains the recognized body for pensioners’ welfare.
During the deliberations, participants discussed the implementation of the N32,000 pension increase contained in the circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.
Comrade Musa explained that the adjustment would raise monthly pensions significantly, citing Kaduna State where a pensioner currently receiving N32,000 would move to N62,000 if the circular is implemented. He urged all state governments to comply to cushion the effects of economic hardship on retirees.
The union also raised alarm over the backlog of pensions and gratuities owed in many states, particularly in the north. Musa decried the situation where some retirees receive as little as N1,950 monthly in Benue, N3,500 in Zamfara and Sokoto, N5,000 in Katsina, and N5,000 in Katsina, while Kaduna pensioners receive N3,000. He contrasted this with Kano and Jigawa, where pensioners receive between N12,000 and N20,000.
Comrade Alhassan appealed to state governors to prioritize the welfare of retirees, noting that many of them served the country for 35 years or more. He said pensioners, due to their age and integrity, keep their word and could be strong allies if treated fairly. He added that governors who fail to support pensioners today may face similar neglect when they leave office.
The union called for urgent action to ensure the full payment of pensions, gratuities, and the implementation of the approved increase across all states, stressing that retirees deserve dignity and financial security after decades of service to the nation.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by members to work together to improve the welfare of pensioners across the 19 northern states and the FCT. The Forum concluded with appreciation to members for their unity and solidarity, and pledged continued advocacy for the rights and dignity of retirees.
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