The Nigerian Union of Pensioners, South-East zone, has praised Governor Charles Soludo for clearing four years of outstanding gratuities owed retirees.

The union said the gratuities, covering 2017 to 2020, amounted to N22 billion inherited from the previous administration in Anambra.

South-East chairman of the union, Anthony Ugozor, gave the commendation during the zonal meeting held on Monday in Awka.

Mr Ugozor urged governors across the South-East to emulate Mr Soludo by prioritising pensioners’ welfare and ensuring prompt payment of retirement benefits.

He noted that retired workers under Mr Soludo’s administration received gratuities without delay, while monthly pensions were paid consistently.

According to him, governors should harmonise pension rates and implement the proposed N32,000 minimum pension immediately after the federal government’s announcement.

Mr Ugozor argued that pensioners who retired on identical grade levels deserved equal pensions regardless of their retirement years.

He lamented existing disparities, saying retirees on the same Grade Level 12 received different pensions despite facing identical economic realities.

“A retiree in 2020 may earn N15,000, while another retired in 2025 receives N25,000 on the same grade level. In light of the approved federal minimum pension of N32,000, we urge governors to effect the adjustment immediately after the official announcement,” Mr Ugozor added.

The union leader also reminded the Anambra government about N490.18 million meant for primary school pensioners from the 2002 and 2003 periods. He alleged that the funds remained with the Local Government Pension Board while some beneficiaries had died awaiting payment.

The head of service, Ngozi Iwuno, assured pensioners of the administration’s continued commitment to their welfare.

Ms Iwuno urged retirees to remain peaceful and commended them for their contributions to public service and national development.

The chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Anambra, Humphrey Nwafor, called for unity among pensioners across the state.

Mr Nwafor disclosed that the NLC had already engaged authorities over the proposed N32,000 minimum pension for retirees nationwide. He added that the Soludo administration had paid pensioners a non-taxable monthly stipend of N10,000 since October 2024.

According to him, top government officials were already reviewing modalities for implementing the new pension structure in Anambra.

The national president of the union, Godwin Abumisi, urged pensioners not to lose hope in spite of prevailing economic difficulties. Mr Abumisi said the approval of pension harmonisation by President Bola Tinubu had produced encouraging outcomes for retirees.

He maintained that the harmonisation policy remained essential for improved pensions and enhanced welfare benefits for pensioners across the country.

(NAN)