FEPPPAN lauds Tinubu’s N5bn pensioners’ health insurance

• Urges timely payments, arrears settlement, fair treatment

THE Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has praised President Bola Tinubu, for approving over N5 billion for a health insurance scheme for federal pensioners, describing the move as a major step toward addressing the longstanding healthcare challenges facing retirees.

In an Easter message signed by its president-general, Elder Benjamin M. Amako, the union said the initiative signals “vision, compassion, and a profound understanding of the health challenges faced by retirees,” urging that its implementation be expedited to ensure immediate impact across the country.

FEPPPAN also paid tributes to Nigerian retirees for their resilience and lifelong contributions to national development, noting that the Easter season of sacrifice and renewal reflects their daily reality of endurance amid hardship.

While commending the government’s efforts, FEPPPAN acknowledged the roles of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) in strengthening pension administration and improving service delivery.

However, the group warned that despite these efforts, many retirees remain under severe economic strain, as rising inflation, high cost of living, and declining purchasing power continue to erode their ability to meet basic needs.

ALSO READ: INEC plotting to prevent us from fielding candidates – ADC

It stressed that pension administration must be anchored on justice, fairness, and equity, insisting that no group of retirees should suffer neglect or discrimination under any arrangement. The union called on all relevant authorities to strictly adhere to the laws guiding pension management, while ensuring transparency and accountability across institutions.

FEPPPAN further urged the government to fulfill all outstanding commitments to retirees, including the implementation of previously promised palliative measures, and to introduce additional targeted interventions to cushion the impact of prevailing economic hardship.

Also, it emphasised the need for regular and prompt payment of pensions, warning that delays expose retirees to avoidable suffering, while also calling for the immediate settlement of all outstanding arrears and entitlements.

Reinforcing its commendation of the health insurance scheme, the group said expanding access to affordable healthcare remains critical to improving the well-being of retirees, many of whom face age-related health challenges without adequate support.

It also called for the strengthening of PTAD to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability, while urging leadership within pension institutions to be guided by professionalism, empathy, and fairness in all dealings.

Beyond welfare concerns, FEPPPAN stressed the importance of improved security and stronger social protection systems, noting that retirees deserve to live in peace, safety, and dignity after years of service to the nation. “Beyond systems and procedures, pension administration must reflect empathy and respect for those who have served the nation,” Amako said.

The association expressed hope that the Easter season would inspire decisive government action to restore dignity and relief to retirees, many of whom continue to bear the brunt of Nigeria’s harsh economic realities. It also encouraged its members nationwide to remain steadfast, assuring them that their welfare remains at the core of its advocacy.