The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Niger State council has called on the Nigerian and Niger State governments to ensure all pensioners in the nation are captured in the fuel subsidy removal palliatives.
The state council in a press release signed by its Secretary of union, Comrade Abdullahi Baba Sani, made available to newsmen on Monday in Minna.
Sani explained that excluding a single retiree from the plan for palliative provision will be an act of wickedness against the most vulnerable group in the state.
According to him, “Because of the severe hardship Nigerians are experiencing right now due to certain economic realities, we are geared to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that pensioners’ welfare is given utmost priority. We know that the current administration has already prioritised our welfare and is determined not to leave pensioners behind in its quest to provide the dividend of democracy.
“Our anticipation is already high, and we are eager to hear the good news of upward review of our pensions. We do not expect the government to treat us as second-hand citizens by refusing to review pensions alongside workers’ salaries.
“Currently, the level of vulnerability of the retired old men and women Nigeria cannot be overemphasised. Sickness and economic hardship take tolls on Pensioners,hence the call on the state government to ensure that their welfare is enhanced.
“We appreciate the Niger State Government’s steadfastness in payment of monthly pensions and arrears.”