By Christopher Tom, Uyo
The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Akwa Ibom State Council, has commended the state government for releasing ₦78 billion for the payment of gratuities to pensioners across all sectors, describing the gesture as a demonstration of good governance and compassionate leadership.
The union said the intervention has significantly eased the hardship faced by retirees and improved their standard of living across the state.
Speaking at the 2025 National Pensioners’ Day celebration held in Uyo, the State Chairman of NUP, Pastor Sylvester Okon Nkodo, expressed deep appreciation to the government for what he described as an unprecedented commitment to the welfare of pensioners.
Nkodo noted that the gratuity payment cut across civil service pensioners, local government retirees, retired primary school teachers, as well as next of kin of deceased pensioners. He also commended the state government for the establishment of a free medical health insurance card scheme for pensioners, which he said has helped address many of their health challenges.
According to him, the union does not take the government’s intervention for granted, stressing that the governor’s steadfast commitment, compassion, and genuine concern for the elderly have restored hope to thousands of retirees in Akwa Ibom State.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Akwa Ibom State Council, Obong Cosmos M. Essien (JP, AMBP), acknowledged the governor’s remarkable interventions, noting that they have led to visible improvements in the welfare of pensioners.
Essien said members of the union have witnessed tangible progress under the current administration, attributing this to the governor’s open-door leadership style. He urged pensioners to continue supporting government programmes, adding that constructive engagement yields positive outcomes.
He further called on members to remain united, determined, and committed to advocating for the welfare of all pensioners, stressing that the responsibility extends to their families and future generations to build a legacy of justice, fairness, and respect for the aged.
The NUP secretary cautioned members against individuals seeking to sow discord within the union, urging them to strengthen internal cohesion, promote cooperation, and actively participate in union activities to fully benefit from its programmes. He commended members for their massive turnout at the Pensioners’ Day celebration and encouraged them to sustain the momentum.
In her remarks, the Director, Local Government Pension Board, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Emem Umoh, praised the pensioners for their passion, unity, and unwavering support for their leadership, noting that their level of organisation is worthy of emulation by other states.
Mrs. Umoh expressed optimism that future editions of the Pensioners’ Day celebration would be even more impactful, suggesting broader participation by government officials, including the governor and other top functionaries, to further enrich the occasion.
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