The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Contributory Pension Scheme (NUPCPS), has called on the National Assembly to undertake a comprehensive review of the Contributory Pension Scheme Act 2014, saying urgent reforms are needed to halt the rising number of requests for exclusion from the scheme.
The appeal was made by the state chairman of the union, Mr. Joseph Oyadiran, at the maiden Commemoration Day of the NUPCPS held at Pensioners’ House, Onireke, Ibadan.
Oyadiran noted that the scheme, enacted to replace the old Defined Benefit Scheme plagued by misappropriation, requires urgent attention to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability.
While presenting a paper titled “Contributory Pension Scheme: More Rivers to Cross”, Dr. Olusegun Abatan, secretary of the union in Oyo State, urged the federal government to address ongoing challenges affecting pensioners under the scheme. Abatan stressed that adequate reforms are crucial for retirees to enjoy a better standard of living.
Oyadiran also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support of pensioners nationwide, particularly his commitment to tackling corruption, which he said had “gladdened the hearts” of retirees.
In his goodwill message, Baale Oloka (RMD), Chief Moshood Olaleye, encouraged pensioners to prioritise their health through proper diet and regular exercise. Earlier, the chairman of the planning committee, Alhaji Rasheed Yussuf, said the essence of the day was to reflect on pensioners’ welfare and build a united front to confront the challenges of neglect and deprivation.
Awards were presented to Dr. Abatan, received on his behalf by the General Manager of Pensioners FM, Dr. Babatunde Tiamiyu, in recognition of his contributions to the welfare of retirees in the state.
