The South South Pensioners are demanding for minimum pension for Retired civil servants and senior citizens following the signing of the minimum wage increase by the federal government.
This was adopted by the Pensioners at the end of South South Zonal meeting of Nigeria union of pension
Speaking to newsmen at the sidelines of the meeting, Zonal South South chairmen Dr Williams Seleipere said in the past it’s takes government months, years to add or increase pension whenever there is adjustment
He urge government to begin preparation for the consequential adjustment to alleviate the suffering of pension
For his part the state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners Collins Nwankwo frowned at the slow rate at which state governments is paying gratuities in bits.
He also called on the state Governors to fast track the implementation of minimum wage
In his speech, Alex Agwanwor Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) represented by the Vice Chairman, Azubike Nkasiobu stated that Portharcourt is peaceful contrary to insinuation in the media that the state is not safe. He disclosed that NUP Rivers State is a major affiliate of Nigeria Labour Congress in Rivers state and is always active in every activity of NLC in the state.
The Head of Service George Nwaeke Representative Director of Administration Chimenem Mpi said The head of service is always grateful for a meeting as this because it will provide him an opportunity to discuss about themselves and their general well being.
He said “State Government has been prompt in payment of pension after the pensioners complete their biometric contrary to what was obtainable in the past where the retirees can finishing capturing and stay for more than six months without payment”
He noted that the “Governor is working to increase the amount to be paid to pensioners to capture more people, and improve welfare of pensioner which is at the front burner under the administration of Governor Fubara. The office of the head of service is always willing to work with the union to ensure that the interest of the pensioners are attended to”
He added that his office is always willing to work with the union to ensure that the interest of the pensioners are attended to.