By Naomi Sharang
A retired pension officer, Mrs Maria Etukudoh, has urged the government to improve the living wage of workers and strengthen the nation’s pension system.
Etukudoh made the call at a colourful reception to mark her retirement from the the Federal Civil Service after 25 years.
The retiree reflected on her years of service as well as developments in pension administration.
She urged government to continue to prioritise policies that would guarantee decent livelihoods for workers during their active years and ensure financial security after retirement.
Etukudoh who retired as the Head of the Pension unit at the Federal Ministry of Finance, said a humane pension system should go beyond the payment of retirement benefits to addressing the welfare, dignity and changing needs of pensioners.
“The experiences of many pensioners is heartbreaking. The country must urgently reform its pension administration, improve workers’ welfare and provide a living wage capable of sustaining public servants before and after retirement.
“There are many challenges because I am retiring as a pension officer,” she said.
“You see retirees who have worked all their lives for this country, and when it is time for them to receive their reward, in most cases they don’t get that reward”.
According to her, years of working directly with pensioners exposed her to painful realities that continue to haunt her.
“Sometimes you see them crying. Some of them even want to sleep in the office.
“In some offices, they actually sleep outside because they are waiting for their entitlements.
“It saddens my heart that after giving all their youthful years, strength, resources and time to the nation, they are not adequately compensated.”
She appealed to government at all levels to place greater emphasis on the welfare of retired workers.
Etukudoh added that prompt payment of pensions and retirement benefits would restore confidence in the public service and motivate younger Nigerians to embrace careers in government.
The retiree acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to improve pension administration.
“There is hope. In this present administration, efforts have been made to pay some outstanding pensioners.
“There are also plans to improve contribution rates and strengthen exit benefit schemes.
“Government is trying and we pray they will do even more because when workers are properly compensated, they will give their very best to public service.”
Her husband, Prof. Nkereuwem Etukudoh, who is Provost of the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, paid glowing tribute to his wife.
He described her retirement as a reward for decades of faithful service, sacrifice and commitment to family and nation.
“I encouraged her to join the civil service in 2001, and from that time till now we have not suffered any loss. She has worked, kept the home, remained faithful, and today she is retiring in glory. I thank God for her.”
“She is retiring, but she is not tired. She will continue to contribute to society, support the family and remain active in promoting the work of God.” (NAN)
Edited by Ese E. Ekama-Williams