TMV Hails FG’s N39bn Pension Arrears Payment to Ex-NITEL, PHCN Workers

The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) has applauded the Federal Government’s approval of the payment of N39 billion in pension arrears owed to former workers of the defunct Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and other retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS).

The group described the payment as a historic intervention, noting that many of the affected pensioners had waited for more than two decades to receive their outstanding entitlements.

In a statement issued and signed by its Chairman, Chukwudi Enekwechi, and Secretary, Segun Ogedengbe, TMV said the settlement marked a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to improve the welfare of retirees and restore confidence in the country’s pension administration.

The group noted that the prolonged delay in settling the pension arrears had subjected many retirees and their families to years of hardship.

“We note that the non-payment of the pensions had over the years subjected the pensioners to untold hardship. It is acknowledged that the payment will also cover pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS),” the statement said.

TMV added that the outstanding liabilities had not only been a source of concern to the affected pensioners but also an embarrassment to the country.

“There is no doubt that this backlog of pension arrears had become a source of concern, not only to the pensioners and their immediate families, but also an embarrassment to the country,” it stated.

The group argued that workers who devoted their productive years to public service deserved to receive their retirement benefits promptly, saying such a culture would encourage future generations to contribute meaningfully to national development.

According to TMV, the approval of the N39 billion payment demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to workers’ welfare and the protection of the dignity of labour.

It also said the move reflected the Tinubu administration’s resolve to ensure that pensioners receive their entitlements without undue delay.

“We note that the payments reflect the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, pensioners receive their entitlements promptly,” the group said.

TMV further observed that a substantial part of the pension liabilities was inherited by the current administration, adding that the settlement of the outstanding arrears aligned with the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“It is further noted that much of the pension arrears were inherited by the present administration and, in the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda, all outstanding pension arrears are being settled, thereby bringing a new lease of life to public service,” the statement added.

The group expressed optimism that the payment would boost retirees’ confidence in the pension system and reinforce public trust in the government’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations to former public servants.