The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), the agency responsible for overseeing the pension administration of retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) in Nigeria, has reiterated its commitment to addressing critical pension-related issues affecting its beneficiaries. A key concern is the implementation of the recently approved increase in the minimum pension to N32,000, a development eagerly awaited by pensioners. The agency recognizes the financial strain faced by pensioners, particularly given the prevailing economic conditions, and has pledged to prioritize the disbursement of the increment as soon as the 2025 budgetary allocations are released. This commitment underscores PTAD’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and financial security of DBS pensioners.
Beyond the pension increment, PTAD has acknowledged and is actively working to resolve other pressing issues raised by pensioners. These include challenges related to back-end computation of benefits, processing Next-of-Kin payments, enrolment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), verification of diaspora pensioners, and the settlement of outstanding arrears. These issues represent significant concerns for pensioners, impacting their access to healthcare, timely receipt of benefits, and overall financial well-being. PTAD’s proactive approach in addressing these concerns demonstrates its responsiveness to the needs of its constituents and its dedication to improving service delivery.
The agency’s commitment to resolving these issues is not merely rhetorical. PTAD’s Executive Secretary, Tolulope Odunaiya, has emphasized the agency’s active engagement with relevant government bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Finance and the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. These collaborations are crucial for securing the necessary funding and approvals to implement the pension increment and address other outstanding arrears. The engagement with these key stakeholders highlights PTAD’s strategic approach to problem-solving and its recognition of the importance of inter-agency cooperation in achieving its objectives.
Furthermore, PTAD has conducted productive meetings with representatives of key pensioner associations, including the Federal Universities Pensioners’ Association and the Association of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria Pensioners. These meetings provide a platform for direct dialogue and feedback, allowing pensioners to voice their concerns and PTAD to provide updates on its efforts. This open communication fosters trust and transparency, demonstrating PTAD’s commitment to maintaining a strong working relationship with pensioners and their representatives. The feedback received during these meetings informs PTAD’s strategies and ensures that its actions are aligned with the needs of its beneficiaries.
The outcome of these meetings has been positive, with pensioners’ representatives expressing their appreciation for PTAD’s efforts and pledging their continued support. This collaborative spirit is essential for ensuring the successful implementation of PTAD’s initiatives and for fostering a sense of shared responsibility in improving the welfare of DBS pensioners. The positive feedback from pensioners underscores the effectiveness of PTAD’s communication and engagement strategies and reinforces the agency’s credibility as a reliable advocate for pensioners’ rights.
In conclusion, PTAD’s commitment to addressing the N32,000 pension increment, alongside other critical concerns raised by pensioners, signals a proactive and responsive approach to pension administration. Through continuous engagement with relevant government bodies, collaboration with pensioners’ associations, and a transparent communication strategy, PTAD is striving to enhance the welfare and financial security of DBS pensioners. The agency’s dedication to resolving outstanding issues and its commitment to open dialogue with stakeholders are crucial steps towards building a more robust and effective pension system in Nigeria, ultimately ensuring that pensioners receive the benefits they deserve.
