Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has received the national leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) and reassured them of his administration’s commitment to resolving the lingering pension issues in the state. The NUP national leadership, led by Mazi Godwin Abumisi, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Otti, during which they apologized on behalf of the state NUP for their previous stance on pension matters.
The governor directed his Senior Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Comrade Godson Anucha, to lead a negotiation committee to revisit the issues with the NUP leadership in the state. The committee will comprise the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma; and Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi.
According to Governor Otti, his administration inherited a significant indebtedness, which his team has been working to address. He disclosed that his administration secured ₦10 billion to offset pension arrears, with beneficiaries owed ₦1 million and below receiving full payments, while others received up to 60% of their outstanding entitlements.
Mazi Abumisi commended Governor Otti’s leadership acumen and visible achievements in different sectors, citing the state’s new roads, houses, and payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities. He pleaded with the governor to forgive the state NUP leadership and revisit the lingering pension issues, stating that the union signed documents concerning their pensions in ignorance.
Governor Otti assured the NUP leadership that his administration is committed to finding a lasting solution to the pension issues. He emphasized that his administration values the welfare of pensioners and is working to ensure that their rights are protected.
The governor’s commitment to resolving the pension issues has brought hope to the pensioners, who have been struggling with arrears for years. The negotiation committee will work tirelessly to find a mutually beneficial solution that addresses the concerns of both parties.
The meeting between the governor and the NUP national leadership marked a significant step towards resolving the pension issues in Abia State. With the governor’s commitment and the NUP’s willingness to work together, it is expected that a lasting solution will be found.
The development has brought relief to pensioners in the state, who are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the negotiations. With the governor’s assurance, it is hoped that the pension issues will be resolved soon, bringing much-needed relief to the affected individuals
