The National Association of Retirees of State Governments has threatened a nationwide protest unless state governors urgently review pension payments in line with existing labour laws. The warning was issued in Yenagoa during the inauguration of the Bayelsa State interim executive of the newly registered union.
Speaking at the event, the union’s president, Simon Anchaver, said that action would be taken if authorities fail to address concerns over pension payments. He called on the 36 state governors to prioritise pensions, stressing the need for compliance with labour laws and improved welfare for retirees.
Anchaver also urged President Bola Tinubu to establish a Ministry for Pension Affairs to ensure regular budgetary provisions for pensioners’ welfare.
The union criticised what it described as arbitrary payment of pensions by some state governments. It did, however, commend the Nasarawa State Governor for approving the release of ₦7 billion to clear pension arrears and gratuities.
Also speaking, the union’s national secretary, Bipre Ndiomu, said that the association was newly registered and currently inaugurating state executives across the country. He urged governors to put modalities in place to guarantee the welfare of pensioners, adding: “Pensioners do not have to suffer.”
In his remarks, the Bayelsa State Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Sawyer, represented by the permanent secretary of the Establishment, Training and Pension Bureau, Dr. Charles Enuma, urged the new executive to serve as a bridge between retirees and the government. He assured that the state government was open to engagement on outstanding issues.
Responding, the newly inaugurated Bayelsa State chairman of the union, Mr. Bazigha Tanwei, accepted the mandate and promised an open-door policy, regular consultations with members, and sustained engagement with the state government to clear pension arrears.
Other members of the executive include Chief Patrick Weridongha (vice-chairman), Engr. Tiekuro Ndiomu (secretary), and Bibobra Erebi (woman coordinator). Others are Feubodei Ebiowei Francis (public relations officer), Hon. Vivian Nagha (treasurer), Sokari Philomina Mubai (financial secretary), Kuroekigha Christian (auditor), Engr. Teibowei Ojobo D. (welfare officer), Thomas-Etelle Ephraim (ex-officio), Mockiya Owen, and Yakiah Patience.
