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Nasarawa, Kogi Retirees Want Upward Review of Pension

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Residents of Nasarawa and Kogi on Monday advocated the reform of Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), saying it has not met the expectations of pensioners.Some pensioners who spoketo our correspondent in Lokoja on Monday said they were not impressed with the manner some of the pension administrators were treating them.

Mr Dare Olukaiyeja, a retired director in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security said his experience after retirement was unfortunate given the manner his pension administrators handled his monthly pension.
The director, in expressing his pain, said he got his gratuity and pension almost two years after retirement.Though, he admitted that his monthly pension was being paid regularly.
“I never knew that it would take me almost two years before my retirement benefits would be paid.“This is because the delay was contrary to what they always made workers to believe before their retirement.“I think government should look into the unnecessary delays in payment of retirees’ retirement benefits so as not to send some persons to their early graves.“The CPS should be reformed to allow contributors take away their Retired Saving Account (RSA) balance 100 per cent,” Olukaiyeja said.Mr Kola Adeyemi, a retired Deputy Director in News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said he retired in October 2021, and had a fair experience with the CPS.“I retired on October 10, 2021, and I got my benefits 14 months. I think that was fair compared to some that take over two or three years.“In my case, the delay was due to a mistake I made while filling my form. I filled the form twice, and this led to a shift in the schedule time I was to be paid.“Again, I have been getting my monthly pension regularly, particularly on the 20th of every month from my PFA. CPS is a close ended arrangement, this is should be looked into.“All the same, there is need for review to know exactly what CPS is set out to achieve and not only to take off the burden of paying monthly pensions to retirees from FG,” he said.Another retiree, Mr Ahmed Dada, expressed mixed feelings about his experience on the contributory pension.Dada said: “It has been mixed feelings for me as my monthly pension is nothing to write home about”.Like Adeyemi, Dada said he got his maiden pension benefits in 2021, having waited for 15 months.The retired director said that he has been getting his monthly pension regularly from his pension fund administrator.“This class of Nigerian retirees, especially those on the CPS are really passing through hell coping with the current economic hardships in the country,” Dada said.Mr Oladipo Agaja, who retired from Kogi Local Government Service on Grade Level 14 said that he only got N120, 000 as part of his gratuity since he retired in 2010.He said: “I cannot remember the amount I am entitled to but as a retired Head of Department of Works, I took home that amount at my retirement as salary.“I now collect a monthly pension of N39, 000. Thanks to this present administration which came to upgrade the monthly payment, because as at last year I was earning between N9,000 and N18,000 as pension.Agada appealed to the state and Federal Government to establish uniform rules and standards of administration on pension.A retired educationist, Mrs Ladun Gbadebo, who worked in the state ministry of education said there was need to scrutinise pension staffer following alleged shady activities going on in the pension administrators’ offices.Gbadebo noted that the administration of pension in Nigeria had been marred by policy inconsistencies.She highlighted major problems of the pension scheme as delay in payment of pensions and gratuities to deserving retirees, lack of accountability and poor management.According to her, pension system was faces the challenges of lack of transparency and inaccurate pensioners’ records, among others.“All these challenges have pushed many pensioners into untold hardship, such as abject poverty, ill health.“Many have resorted to begging for survival while others have died waiting for the payments of their gratuities and pension,” she said.Mrs Florence Aina, who retired from Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, called on government at all levels to always remember pensioners as much as they remember those still in service.Aina said financially, the pensioners need to be adequately catered for because being senior citizens they usually have some health challenges.“I expect government to put emphasis on pensioners, such that when other sectors get a pay increase, they should also have.“This is because what affects serving civil servants affect them too because they all buy from the same market.In Nasarawa State retirees appealed to the state government for an upward review of their pension entitlements.According to the senior citizens, they have not benefited from three consecutive national minimum wage increments in Nasarawa State.Mr Samuel Tabe, a pensioner said that pensioners in Nasarawa State were going through tough times as some receive as low as N5, 000 as pension.“This is the third national minimum wage they are working on and none was added to the pensioners in Nasarawa state.“Everybody is keeping quiet; nobody is talking about the pensioners,” he said.Tabe, who retired in 2013, said he started receiving his pension payment immediately after he exited from the service.“I am not satisfied with the current system regarding gratuity payment, unlike those days when somebody retires his benefits will be worked out for him.“When you eventually leave the service, the highest you stay before you can receive your gratuity is 3 to 4 months, thereafter your gratuity is being paid. But it is not like that today.“Since I retired from the service in 2013 till date my gratuity has not been paid, I have up to N8 million as my gratuity,” he said.Mr Matthew Tukura, a new retiree, urged the agencies responsible for the payment of retirees’ benefits to make provision for their accumulated entitlements at once rather than paying in piecemeal.“Even if the government cannot pay retirees their entitlements at once half of it should be paid. If such sum is paid at once they can go into business like poultry, fish and livestock farming’’, he said.Tukura raised concern over the delayed payment of gratuity in the state.“To treat senior citizens like that is not the best; it doesn’t show respect for labour and services after serving for 35 years.“So, government and other agencies responsible for pension matters should review the pension so that our senior citizens can enjoy their lives after retirement,” he said.Mr Peter Ahemba, Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Gov. Abdullahi Sule, assured that the government would review the payment of pension upward to enable pensioners enjoy increments accrued from the new minimum wage.He said Sule’s administration was sensitive to the plight of the senior citizens as he maintained regular payment of pension in the state since he became governor.“Retired civil servants in Nasarawa State enjoy their pension almost immediately after retirement.“ It does not take time because when you are about to retire your pension is processed by relevant offices as quickly as possible.“Government has plans to review the pension upward because of the new national minimum wage; pensioners should be patient with the government.“The government is sensitive to the plights of the pensioners, every pensioner will get what is due to him or her,” he said. (NAN)

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Enugu Reaffirms Commitment to Excellence in Infrastructure Delivery

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From Sylvia Udegbunam, Enugu

Enugu State Commissioner for Ministry of Works and Infrastructure Ben Osy Okoh, has reiterated its firm commitment to upholding the highest standards in all government-awarded contracts, reinforcing the state’s vision for transformational development.This was disclosed in a statement by the Public relations officer ministry of work and infrastructure Enugu State, Ngozi Ngene on Tuesday.

Okoh In his first meeting with the Ministry’s Management Staff emphasized that quality control remains a non-negotiable priority.
According to him “Every contract awarded by the state must be executed strictly according to its specifications. If the contract requires concrete strength of 25 Newton per millimeter square, that is exactly what we expect.
There will be no compromise.”He further emphasised the critical need for strict adherence to established standards and international best practices in road construction, warning that pavement thickness must meet approved specifications, and that asphalt must be produced, transported, laid and compacted at the appropriate temperatures in line with global standards. “Anything short of these best practices will not be accepted”.”To ensure rigorous quality assurance, the Ministry is prioritising the upgrade and full resourcing of the Materials Laboratory Department, the technical unit responsible for testing and verifying construction materials. I take personal responsibility for ensuring that our materials lab is fully equipped to deliver accurate and timely quality checks,” he said.The Commissioner expressed strong commitment to the Governor’s transformative agenda, saying that “We are aligned with His Excellency’s dream of transforming Enugu State. The state we knew two years ago will be completely different by the end of this administration. We are committed to making this vision a reality, swiftly and effectively”.He underscored the importance of professionalism, diligence, and collective responsibility. He noted that existing operational challenges are being systematically addressed, with particular attention to enhancing the wellbeing and working environment of field personnel.He further affirmed that those who show commitment and dedication will be recognised and rewarded as the Ministry carries out its responsibilities. He also emphasised the need for strengthened project monitoring and evaluation to ensure strict compliance with approved specifications and timely delivery.”The Ministry will ensure that all contractors engaged on state projects meet their contractual obligations and responsibilities. Our philosophy shall be anchored on quality, transparency, and accountability. Every project must adhere to approved specifications, timelines, and best practices. We are committed to delivering infrastructure that reflects value for money and stands the test of time”.“We are not just constructing roads and bridges,” the Commissioner concluded, “We are setting a new national standard for public works where excellence is absolutely non-negotiable.”In alignment with this vision, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ogugua Emehelu, congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment and commended his early initiatives. He emphasised the importance of open communication and teamwork within the Ministry, encouraging staff to engage constructively with the new Commissioner and extend their full support. He noted that the success of the Ministry depends on collective effort and shared responsibility.Head of Administration and Supply, Princess Nnaji speaking on behalf of the Ministry, pledged full support to the new Commissioner and appealed for mutual acceptance and cooperation to achieve the desired results.

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Mutfwang Commits to Expanding State Healthcare

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From Jude Dangwam, Jos

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has disclosed that under his administration, the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLASCHEMA) has recorded groundbreaking progress in health insurance coverage grown 93,605 enrollees in May 2023, to enrolment skyrocketed to 208,550 by March 31, 2025 having a 123% increase.

He reiterated his commitment in expanding the state healthcare contributory scheme to include more vulnerable citizens of the state.
Mutfwang made this known on Monday during a Media perley with the entire media community.According to him, “Under the Time is now administration, PLASCHEMA has recorded groundbreaking progress in health insurance coverage, ICT transformation, and access to care.
”From 93,605 enrollees in May 2023, enrolment skyrocketed to 208,550 by March 31, 2025 a 123% increase. This expansion includes enrollees from the formal sector, the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), and newly introduced equity programs such as Mutfwang Care for retired civil servants.”He noted that a major overhaul of the Agency’s ICT infrastructure has enhanced transparency, real-time monitoring, and user experience.”The system now supports direct premium payments via Paystack, Mobile and offline enrolments, Real-time dashboards, and Automatic ID card generation for enrollees and dependents. The reforms have strengthened data integrity, enhanced transparency, and decentralized access through new zonal offices in Barkin Ladi, Pankshin, and Shendam,” he stated.The Governor disclosed that the “Mutfwang Care Initiative” has already covered over 9,000 vulnerable citizens, with Governor Mutfwang personally flagging off enrolment.”PLASCHEMA also plans to deploy a full Electronic Medical Records system in Q2 2025, integrated with the National Identity Number (NIN), to revolutionize verification, utilization tracking, and accountability across healthcare tiers,” Mutfwang statedThe Governor further disclosed that the Impact Project: Transforming Maternal and Child Health launched in 2021 towards improving Child and Maternal Health Project (IMPACT) in Plateau State is making tangible strides toward reducing under-five and maternal mortality has made significant progress.”The state is on course to reduce under-five mortality from 132 to 79 per 1,000 live births by 2030 Achievements (2023–2024). Increased antenatal and postnatal attendance, Rise in skilled birth attendant (SBA) deliveries, Improved uptake of IPT3 (malaria prevention during pregnancy).”More children under one year fully immunized, with a notable decline in infant and maternal deaths. Key investments consist of the deployment of 207 motorbikes to boost outreach and referrals.”Installation of solar power systems in all the 207 Basic Health Care Provision Fund Facilities (BHCPF) in 207 Federal wards across the state. Renovation and tiling of delivery rooms for safer childbirth.”Distribution of 207 laptops for digital health reporting. Digitization of all BHCPF facilities for real-time monitoring.Contracts awarded to upgrade 82 PHCs to meet national standards,” Mutfwang noted.

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Commissioner Urges Citizens to Protect Govt Property against Vandalism

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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo has urged citizens to protect government property against vandalism.Fanwo stressed the need for citizens to see government property as their own since they were provided to serve their needsHe gave the warning when he led the management team of the Ministry on an on the spot visit to Radio Nigeria Prime FM Lokoja, where hoodlums carted away valuable broadcast equipment at the Radio Station.

The Commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ebenezer Adurodija, described the act as barbaric and disheartening, “The incessant vandalism of Broadcasting Stations is disheartening and must be addressed properly,” he stated.
He also urged the management at the headquarters to take necessary steps to ensure that the vandalised equipment are replaced as soon as possible.Fanwo called on the federal government and other stakeholders to intensify the security of the Broadcasting Station for the safety of the staff and the property.The Commissioner reiterated Kogi State Government’s efforts in ensuring the security of the broadcast stations, whether federal, state, or private, as they are soft targets for hoodlums and disgruntled elements.”We will do everything possible to ensure the safety of all the broadcasting stations in the state, government or non-government to avert future occurrence”Communities have a big role in protecting government property within their domains. We seek the cooperation of our community leaders to also assist the government in this regard,” he emphasized.In his remarks, the General Manager of the station, Alhaji Adeiza Momohjimoh, appreciated Kingsley Fanwo and the management team of the Ministry of Information and Communications for identifying with them at their grieving moment, describing the action of the hoodlums as unfortunateAlhaji Momohjimoh highlighted that the criminals came prepared as most of the equipment carted away could not be removed with bare hands without tools, noting that they have communicated the incident to the zonal headquarters in Lafia.The General Manager appealed to the state government and security agencies to help media houses with personnel to secure lives and property.He also appealed to the state government for financial assistance to enhance the smooth running of the station as the state is for Kogi State, while 95% of the staff are from the state.Alhaji Adeiza Momohjimoh urged the community to give necessary support to safeguard the radio station.

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