Consider pensioners when planning welfare programmes for workers, union tells FG

Nigeria Union of Pensioners says the federal government should consider pensioners when planning welfare programmes for workers.

Speaking with NAN, Bunmi Ogunkolade, the head of information for the union, said pensioners are worst-hit by galloping inflation that set in after the removal of fuel subsidy.

He said goods and services are now out of reach of retired citizens due to the “meagre” pensions being paid to them.

“Pensioners go to the same markets as others; they are also a special breed because most of them are on regular drug regimens for age-related ailments,” he said.

“They are prone to high blood pressure, diabetes and other old age sicknesses. That is why we are always appealing to governments to take care of these special people.

“We want governments to always put pensioners into consideration whenever they are planning welfare programmes for workers.

“We want government to double payable pensions and provide free medical care for pensioners.”

Ogunkolade said the federal government’s proposed palliatives to states, to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal, are temporary.

“What government is giving is temporary solution; palliatives for pensioners should be provided until the end of their lives,” he said.

“We want government to be explicit on what it would do to sustain pensioners beyond palliatives that are temporary.

“It should also ensure that all pensioners receive living minimum pensions.”