Tinubu fires PTAD executive secretary, appoints Tolulope Odunaiya as replacement

President Bola Tinubu has sacked Chioma Ejikeme, the executive secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD).

The development comes almost a week after retirees under the Nigeria Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS) staged a protest at the federal ministry of finance, Abuja, over unpaid benefits since March 2023.

In a statement on Monday, Olugbenga Ajayi, head of the corporate communications unit at PTAD, announced that Tolulope Odunaiya has been appointed as the new executive secretary of the organisation.

According to the statement, Odunaiya officially assumed office at the PTAD headquarters on November 18, succeeding Ejikeme, who served from August 2019 to November 2024.

Ejikeme was removed from office 13 months after she was reappointed for a second term by Tinubu in October 2023.

“We are delighted to inform our Publics especially PTAD pensioners and other stakeholders of the appointment of Miss Tolulope Abiodun Odunaiya by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the substantive Executive Secretary of Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD),” the statement reads.

“Miss Odunaiya assumed office today, 18th November, 2024 at the PTAD Headquarters where Management and Staff of the Directorate welcomed her warmly. She is taking over from Dr. Chioma Nnenna Ejikeme who was the Executive Secretary from August 2019 to November 2024.”

In her address to the staff members, according to the statement, Odunaiya pledged to build on the achievements of her predecessors.

She assured the team of a new chapter — one focused on collaboration, unity, and a common purpose — aimed at achieving significant results and lasting progress.

“It is with a deep sense of responsibility and purpose that I address you as the new Executive Secretary of this Directorate. I want to begin by acknowledging the remarkable work of my predecessors and the dedication of every individual who has contributed to bringing us to this point,” Odunaiya said.

“My vision is for a Directorate where every individual feels recognized, empowered, and motivated to make meaningful contributions.

“I urge all of us to transcend personal interests and come together around our shared purpose: improving the lives of our pensioners, who have selflessly served this nation, often in challenging circumstances.”

‘PENSIONERS ARE BACKBONE OF NIGERIA’S DEVELOPMENT’

Odunaiya said pensioners are the backbone of the nation’s history and development, having dedicated their time, expertise, and efforts to shaping the Nigeria inherited today.

“It is both our responsibility and our honor to ensure they receive the care, respect, and timely entitlements they deserve. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten, and through our collective efforts, we can reaffirm their value to the nation and make their retirement years fulfilling,” she added.

The executive secretary pledged to align with PTAD’s mission and vision in support of Tinubu’s ‘renewed hope’ agenda for a prosperous Nigeria.

She said by prioritising efficiency, accountability, and compassion, the organisation will help create a nation where all citizens, particularly those who devoted their lives to public service, feel valued and supported.

According to the statement, Odinaiya toured the various departments and units within the directorate to get firsthand information on its administration and processes.