The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in Ogun State, Waidi Oloyede, has urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to introduce a health relief scheme under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to provide retirees with a 50% discount on health services. Oloyede highlighted the significant health challenges many retirees face due to age, stressing that such a measure would ease the burden on elderly citizens.
Speaking at the annual Pensioners’ Day celebration, held at the union’s secretariat in Abeokuta, Oloyede emphasized the need for urgent pension adjustments in the state. He pointed out that while the state’s active workforce has benefited from wage increases and a 40% special allowance since last year, pensioners continue to receive the same amount despite the rising cost of living brought on by subsidy removal.
“The long-awaited pension increase remains a major concern for our senior citizens. Many retirees’ monthly pensions are insufficient to meet their basic needs, let alone cover medical expenses,” Oloyede said. “We urge Your Excellency to implement this consequential pension adjustment to ease the financial strain on our senior citizens.”
He further stressed the necessity of including pensioners in the NHIS scheme and offering them a 50% discount on health services. According to Oloyede, such a rebate would align with the benefits already enjoyed by active workers.
In addition, the NUP Chairman requested the inclusion of pensioners in the negotiation process for the new minimum wage, stating that their participation would help shape policies that better reflect the financial realities faced by retirees.
Despite these challenges, Oloyede commended Governor Abiodun for his efforts to address the backlog of unpaid pensions. He acknowledged the governor’s commitment, which has seen the quarterly release of N500 million for pensions increase to N2 billion and, more recently, N5.3 billion.
Oloyede concluded by expressing the union’s support for Governor Abiodun’s administration, praising his dedication to improving the welfare of pensioners and pledging continued cooperation with the state government.
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