The Nigeria Union of Pensioners has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 74th birthday, applauding his administration’s reforms in the pension sector while calling for additional measures to improve the welfare of retirees nationwide.
In a statement released on Sunday, the union’s National President, Godwin Abumisi, said pensioners across the country were not only marking the President’s birthday but also acknowledging what he described as “purposeful leadership and renewed attention to the plight of retirees.”
Abumisi noted that recent policy actions under the Tinubu administration have begun to tackle long-standing issues within Nigeria’s pension system, particularly delayed payments and outstanding arrears.
“Mr. President, pensioners across the country proudly join millions of Nigerians in celebrating you today, particularly in recognition of your administration’s deliberate and impactful interventions aimed at improving the welfare and dignity of retirees,” he said.
He described the approval of a ₦32,000 monthly pension increase as a “bold and compassionate decision,” noting that it has helped cushion the impact of inflation and rising living costs on retirees.
The union also pointed to the Federal Government’s approval of about ₦700 billion to settle outstanding obligations under the Contributory Pension Scheme, along with ₦57 billion for retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme, describing it as a “landmark intervention.”
“These interventions are addressing the backlog of accrued rights owed to CPS retirees, many of whom endured years of uncertainty and hardship after meritorious service,” Abumisi said.
He further commended the government for clearing pension arrears—especially for retirees in government agencies—and for ensuring more consistent monthly payments.
“We acknowledge the sustained prompt payment of pensions and your timely interventions in resolving delays, which demonstrate responsive and people-centred leadership,” he added.
The union also welcomed the approval for the payment of gratuities to retired workers, noting that many had waited years to receive their benefits.
Despite the commendation, the NUP urged the President to ensure that state governments implement the approved pension increases so retirees at the state level can also benefit.
“While we commend your efforts, we respectfully urge Your Excellency to prevail on state governors to fully implement all approved pension increases, so that pensioners at the state level can equally benefit,” Abumisi stated.
He also called for the swift rollout of a proposed health insurance scheme for pensioners, describing it as essential to improving healthcare access and overall well-being for elderly citizens.
“As you mark your 74th birthday, we pray for continued strength and wisdom to drive policies that will ensure economic growth, national development, and the well-being of all Nigerians, especially retirees,” Abumisi said.