A’Ibom Govt reassures pensioners on welfare, emphasises healthcare

Tony Okoh, Uyo

Head of Civil Service (HoS), Akwa Ibom State, Mrs Elsie Peters, has urged pensioners to prioritise their health, as well as engage in activities that promote a sense of belonging with colleagues and family members.

Peters made the remarks at the weekend in a goodwill message presented during the commemoration of the 2025 National Pensioners’ Day in the state.

She commended the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) executive in the state for their diplomatic disposition in the negotiation of improved welfare packages for members, noting that such efforts have contributed to the economic growth and overall welfare of pensioners in Akwa Ibom State.

In her words, “As you celebrate, remember to place priority on your health and on activities that promote a sense of belonging with colleagues and families. May I, once again, commend the leaders and members of this union for your support to the state government.”

In his address, the NUP Chairman, Pastor Sylvester Nkodo, described the annual celebration as a recognition of the collective sacrifices, contributions and enduring commitment of pensioners to national development.

The chairman stated that Governor Umo Eno has shown genuine concern for the elderly in the state, recounting how he approved the payment of ₦27,000 in lieu of the ₦80,000 minimum wage to pensioners; established a ₦20,000 minimum pension, which uplifted pensioners who previously earned between ₦1,000 and ₦1,500 monthly; released ₦78 billion for the payment of gratuities across all sectors; and established a free medical insurance healthcare scheme for pensioners in the state.

He reminded members that the union still has more demands to present, urging them to remain united and act decisively for the collective progress of all.

“I sincerely appreciate the steadfast commitment of the governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to the welfare of pensioners and retirees across the state. We remain grateful for his continuous support and fatherly care,” he said.

Also speaking, the Secretary of the union, Obong Cosmos Essien, said the benefits pensioners enjoy today are the result of tireless negotiations and sacrifices by the current executive committee, even as he called for greater cooperation among members in the quest for improved welfare.

While noting that the life expectancy of pensioners has increased following the pension increment, the secretary warned that any member who breaks away from the union to stand alone may not enjoy the benefits that would accrue from the union’s collective struggle.

“What we are enjoying today is the product of the persistent sacrifices of this executive, who worked day and night to ensure the achievements recorded so far. The governor has truly done well in taking care of us, in ways we never experienced under previous administrations,” he noted.