The Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has called on the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) to ensure the full remittance of its members’ check-off dues.
This call was made during the association’s First National Delegates Conference (NDC) held in Abuja on October 17. The event, which marks a significant milestone for FEPPPAN, also saw the election of new leadership, with Elder Benjamin Maisamari Amako emerging as President General.
Speaking at the conference, FEPPPAN’s General Secretary, Mr. Franklin Erinle, expressed concerns over the failure of PTAD to fully remit members’ check-off dues despite clear legal provisions and directives. Erinle emphasized that while the union has exercised patience, it will not tolerate being taken for granted any longer. “We have shown understanding and patience, but we should not be taken for granted,” he said.
Erinle urged PTAD to act swiftly to address the issue, as the non-remittance of dues has persisted for too long. He further called on the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Registrar of Trade Unions (RTU), and other relevant authorities to intervene in the matter. “It is essential that what is rightfully ours, especially as outlined by extant laws, is given to us. We have been patient long enough,” Erinle added.
In addition to addressing internal union issues, FEPPPAN also used the conference as a platform to appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent action to alleviate the economic hardships currently facing the country. Erinle acknowledged the recent increase in pensions for those under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) and the new minimum wage, but he stressed that these measures would amount to nothing if the rising cost of petrol and inflation were not addressed.
“We appeal to President Tinubu to implement policies that will truly mitigate the economic hardship in the country. The continuous rise in petrol prices, along with the escalating cost of goods and services, is worsening the living conditions for Nigerians,” Erinle stated. He also called on the President to approve the immediate payment of the N75,000 palliative that was promised to federal pensioners to help cushion the effects of inflation and fuel price hikes.
Erinle added that the appeal was a poignant reminder of the union’s commitment to ensuring that pensioners are not left behind in the face of economic adversity. He urged all pensioners under the recent regrouping to join FEPPPAN, assuring them that their interests would be well-protected within the union. “Your interests will be safeguarded here, just as they have been for those who are already part of this union,” he assured.
Members of FEPPPAN’s newly elected leadership are: Elder Benjamin Maisamari Amako was elected as President General, alongside a team of other newly elected officials, including Alhaji Rasaki Ope as Deputy President-General (South), Augustine Odihi as Deputy President-General (North), Comrade Bolatito Oyetosho as National PRO, Alhaji Abubakar Bichi as National Auditor I, and Ichie Edwin Enyokwa as National Treasurer.
In his acceptance speech, Amako pledged to lead the union with integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to the welfare of all members. He commended President Tinubu for prioritising the welfare of pensioners, particularly through the recent approval of a N32,000 pension increment. However, Amako reiterated the union’s demand for PTAD to commence full remittance of members’ check-off dues, warning that the union’s patience may soon run out if the issue remains unresolved.
“I will ensure that our voice is not only heard but acted upon,” Amako said. “We will advocate for timely and fair pension adjustments, especially for those agencies not yet covered under the consolidated pension scheme. We must engage with the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission (NSIWC) to ensure that no pensioner is left behind in receiving what’s rightfully theirs.” He said.
Amako also called for the support of all members, emphasising the need for collective action to achieve the union’s goals. “I need the support of all members of NAC, NEC, and the entire FEPPPAN membership to achieve the desired success. Your ideas and participation are crucial to ensuring that FEPPPAN remains a force to reckon with, an association that champions the rights and welfare of pensioners across Nigeria,” he urged.
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, also addressed the conference, commending FEPPPAN for its affiliation with the NLC and for conducting a peaceful election. Ajaero expressed concern over the increasing economic hardship in the country, noting that pensioners’ purchasing power has been significantly eroded by inflation. He called on the federal government to prioritise the welfare of senior citizens and reverse policies that are exacerbating the living conditions of Nigerians.
In his goodwill message, the Registrar of Trade Unions, Mr. Amos Falonipe, praised FEPPPAN for its smooth election process and its commitment to unity. He commended the union for its conduct since being registered by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, particularly in addressing challenges related to check-off dues. However, Falonipe also cautioned the new leadership to be prudent in managing union funds, emphasizing that check-off dues are public funds and should not be treated as personal resources.
As FEPPPAN moves forward under its new leadership, the union remains resolute in its mission to advocate for the rights and welfare of pensioners across Nigeria. With growing economic challenges, the union’s call for full dues remittance and urgent government action on economic policies is more pressing than ever.
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