In a heartfelt and compelling appeal, Waidi Oloyede, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in Ogun State, has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to initiate a health relief program under the National Health Insurance Scheme. During the annual celebration of Pensioners’ Day held at the state secretariat in Leme, Abeokuta, Oloyede proposed that retirees subscribing to this scheme be granted a 50 percent discount, a measure he believes would significantly alleviate the financial burdens faced by many retirees as they cope with age-related health issues.
The occasion was marked by a gathering of retirees who, despite the challenges they face, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to come together and celebrate their contributions to society. Oloyede underscored the gravity of the situation for many senior citizens, stating, “Most of us battle various ailments that come with aging, and the financial strain of managing these health issues can be overwhelming.” He emphasized that the introduction of a health relief initiative would not only serve as a form of assistance but also as a recognition of the sacrifices made by retirees over the years.
Addressing the gathering, Oloyede articulated the pressing need for a health initiative, highlighting that many retirees are struggling to afford medications and necessary treatments. “It is crucial for our government to recognize the plight of its senior citizens. We should not have to choose between buying food and purchasing medications,” he said passionately. Oloyede pointed out that the proposed health relief could be a crucial lifeline for many, particularly those suffering from chronic conditions that require ongoing medical attention.
In addition to the health scheme proposal, Oloyede brought attention to the critical issue of pension adjustments in Ogun State. He noted that while active workers in the state have benefitted from a wage increase since 2020—including an additional 40 percent peculiar allowance introduced last August—pensioners have not experienced similar adjustments. “It’s disheartening to see that while the active workforce enjoys financial relief, pensioners remain stuck with the same meager amounts despite the soaring cost of living,” he lamented.
He further explained that the stagnation in pension amounts has become increasingly burdensome, especially in light of recent economic hardships, particularly those caused by the removal of fuel subsidies. “The long-awaited but seemingly elusive consequential increase in pensions has greatly agitated the minds of senior citizens whose monthly ‘take home’ can hardly meet their basic needs, let alone cover medical expenses,” Oloyede stated. His words resonated with the audience, many of whom nodded in agreement, reflecting the shared struggles they face in their daily lives.
Oloyede’s appeal was not only a plea for financial assistance but also a call for recognition and respect for the contributions of retirees to the state. “We have served this state diligently, and it is disheartening to feel forgotten in the discussions about financial adjustments. Our years of service deserve acknowledgment,” he asserted.
He also advocated for the inclusion of pensioners in discussions concerning the new minimum wage, arguing that their voices should be heard in negotiations that directly affect their financial well-being. “By including pensioners alongside other labor unions in the negotiation forum, we can ensure that our interests are represented, leading to informed decisions that can enhance our economic status,” he argued.
Despite these pressing challenges, Oloyede took a moment to acknowledge and commend Governor Abiodun for his efforts in addressing the backlog of unpaid pensions. He expressed gratitude for the proactive measures the governor has implemented, such as the quarterly release of funds aimed at clearing these arrears. Initially starting with N500 million, this amount has increased to N2 billion, and the recent release of N5.3 billion marks a significant step toward rectifying the situation. “We appreciate the governor’s commitment to resolving these issues, and we hope to see continued efforts in this direction,” he said.
As the day unfolded, Oloyede’s address resonated deeply with the attendees, reinforcing their collective hopes for a better future. He concluded by urging the governor to consider their requests seriously, emphasizing that such actions would not only improve their quality of life but also foster goodwill between the state government and its retirees. “Our commitment to Ogun State remains steadfast, and we stand ready to support initiatives that aim to uplift our community,” he assured.
With the meeting concluding on a hopeful note, the pensioners left with renewed optimism, eager to see meaningful changes that would enhance their lives and recognize their invaluable contributions to society. The gathering served not only as a celebration of their past achievements but also as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many retirees in Ogun State.
