Deputy Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Gombe State Council, Robert Shige, speaks with CHIMA AZUBUIKE on the condition of retirees in the state, the low monthly pensions received by some pensioners, the rising cost of living, among other issuesTell us about your background?I’m 73 years old. I joined the civil service on July 1, 1978. My first posting was to the Ministry of Education. At that time, I was interested in serving in the public sector and, like many people around me, I saw the civil service as an avenue through which one could contribute to society and build a career.I later served under Kaltungo Local Government. I started with a Grade III qualification and continued to improve myself professionally while in service. I completed my Grade II and obtained the qualification after completing college in 1982.As the years went by, I progressed through the service and eventually rose to Grade Level 14, where I retired as a senior officer.I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Tell us about your background?I’m 73 years old. I joined the civil service on July 1, 1978. My first posting was to the Ministry of Education. At that time, I was interested in serving in the public sector and, like many people around me, I saw the civil service as an avenue through which one could contribute to society and build a career.I later served under Kaltungo Local Government. I started with a Grade III qualification and continued to improve myself professionally while in service. I completed my Grade II and obtained the qualification after completing college in 1982.As the years went by, I progressed through the service and eventually rose to Grade Level 14, where I retired as a senior officer.I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Tell us about your background?I’m 73 years old. I joined the civil service on July 1, 1978. My first posting was to the Ministry of Education. At that time, I was interested in serving in the public sector and, like many people around me, I saw the civil service as an avenue through which one could contribute to society and build a career.I later served under Kaltungo Local Government. I started with a Grade III qualification and continued to improve myself professionally while in service. I completed my Grade II and obtained the qualification after completing college in 1982.As the years went by, I progressed through the service and eventually rose to Grade Level 14, where I retired as a senior officer.I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. I’m 73 years old. I joined the civil service on July 1, 1978. My first posting was to the Ministry of Education. At that time, I was interested in serving in the public sector and, like many people around me, I saw the civil service as an avenue through which one could contribute to society and build a career.I later served under Kaltungo Local Government. I started with a Grade III qualification and continued to improve myself professionally while in service. I completed my Grade II and obtained the qualification after completing college in 1982.As the years went by, I progressed through the service and eventually rose to Grade Level 14, where I retired as a senior officer.I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. I later served under Kaltungo Local Government. I started with a Grade III qualification and continued to improve myself professionally while in service. I completed my Grade II and obtained the qualification after completing college in 1982.As the years went by, I progressed through the service and eventually rose to Grade Level 14, where I retired as a senior officer.I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. As the years went by, I progressed through the service and eventually rose to Grade Level 14, where I retired as a senior officer.I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. I retired from the civil service on July 3, 2013, after many years of service. Since retirement, I have remained involved in issues concerning pensioners and their welfare through the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Having spent more than three decades in the civil service, how would you describe your experience as a civil servant in those days?It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. It was fine. There were no major problems as far as I was concerned. We were committed to our work and served under the system as expected.At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. At that time, things were also different economically. The cost of living was not what we are experiencing today. What a civil servant earned could take care of certain basic needs.People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. People were also more conscious of public service and the responsibility that came with being a civil servant. I believe the experience prepared many of us for retirement.What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What motivated you to join the civil service in the first place?At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. At that time, many of my friends and people in our area were interested in prison training and the prison service. I also developed an interest in the prison service, and that was why I eventually joined it.There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. There was a general interest among people around us in that kind of public service. So, my decision was influenced by the environment and the opportunities available at that time.You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. You said you started with a Grade III qualification. Did you continue your education after joining the service?Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Yes, I continued my education. I completed my Grade II qualification and later obtained my Grade II certificate after completing college in 1982. As time went on, I continued to progress in the service until I reached Grade Level 14. I eventually retired as a senior officer.What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What is the current state of pension payment to retirees in Gombe State?In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. In terms of the regularity of monthly pension payments, I would say there is no major problem. The monthly pension comes regularly. We receive it every month and it comes promptly.The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. The major concern is not necessarily the regularity of payment but the amount being paid to some pensioners.There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. There are pensioners who receive very low monthly pensions. Some receive around N9,000 monthly, and when you consider the present economic situation, that amount is simply not enough to meet their basic needs.So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. So, while we appreciate the fact that pensions are being paid regularly, we are asking the government to look at the amount being paid and increase it. There are reports that some pensioners in Gombe State receive as little as N2,000 and others around N9,000 monthly.How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. How widespread is this situation?I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. I cannot confirm that there are pensioners in the state receiving N2,000 as monthly pension. I know about the situation of those receiving around N9,000 and similar low amounts, particularly among some local government pensioners.I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. I am not aware of any pensioner currently collecting N2,000 under the local government system in Gombe State. But the issue of very low pensions is real. Some pensioners are receiving amounts that are far below what is required to meet their daily needs. That is why we are asking for an upward review.How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. How do pensioners survive on N9,000 monthly under the current economic conditions?They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. They have to manage. What else can they do? Those collecting such amounts have to manage with the little they have. Some pensioners are farmers; some are traders, while others engage in other small activities to supplement their pensions.They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. They cannot simply depend on N9,000 for everything because the cost of food and other necessities has increased. So, they try to find other means of survival. Those who have children who are financially capable also receive support from them. But not every pensioner has children who can provide such assistance.What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What are the major challenges pensioners face as a result of these low payments?The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. The major challenge is the general increase in the cost of living. The prices of commodities are increasing, but the pensions of some retirees remain almost the same.You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. You have food to buy, transportation to pay for, healthcare expenses, school fees and other family responsibilities. Pensioners also have dependants who may still look up to them for assistance.The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. The situation is particularly difficult for elderly people because after retirement, many of them are no longer physically strong enough to engage in strenuous economic activities. Some are still farming or trading because they have no choice. They need additional income to survive.How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. How has the rise in the cost of food, transportation and healthcare affected pensioners in the state?It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. It has affected them seriously. Transportation is one major example. Nowadays, transportation is very expensive. Even using a motorcycle can cost between N2,000 and N3,000 per trip in some circumstances.Related NewsInside Gombe community child sexual abuse crisisNigerians being priced out of decent living — AtikuGombe approves N16bn roads, N1.4bn solar street lightsImagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Imagine someone who is collecting N9,000 as pension and has to spend a significant portion of that money just to move around. It becomes very difficult.Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Healthcare is another serious issue. If your child or another member of your family falls sick, you may be given a long list of drugs. When you get to the pharmacy, buying those drugs becomes another struggle.Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Then you have food. Prices have gone up. You also have school fees, especially for those who have children in private schools. These expenses are not easy to meet. So, all these things put pressure on pensioners.Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Can you give some examples of the hardship pensioners face in their daily lives?The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. The hardship can be seen in the way they struggle to meet basic needs. A pensioner may receive his monthly pension, but before long, there are already several demands waiting for the money. There may be food to buy, transport to pay for, medical expenses and school fees.Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Some pensioners are therefore forced to engage in farming and petty trading to survive. They sell what they produce or trade in small items to supplement their pensions. Those who do not have another source of income are particularly vulnerable.What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What impact does low pension have on the health and well-being of retirees?It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. It has a serious impact because most retirees are already advanced in age. When somebody retires after spending many years in service, he is no longer as strong as he was when he was working. At that stage, healthcare becomes more important.If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. If such a person does not have enough money, it becomes difficult to afford treatment and medication.Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Some pensioners depend on their children. Those whose children are able to help receive support, but those whose children are also struggling face difficulties. That is why we believe pensioners deserve better welfare after spending many years serving the government.Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Are there pensioners who can no longer afford medical treatment or medication?Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Yes. Some pensioners did not register withGoHealth, and such people have to pay their medical bills out of pocket. When you are receiving a small pension and you have to pay for medical treatment yourself, it becomes difficult.Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Healthcare is one of the major areas where pensioners need support. At an advanced age, people are more likely to require medical attention, and the government should take this into consideration when planning pensioners’ welfare.What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What efforts has the Nigeria Union of Pensioners made to engage the government on the issue?We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. We have been appealing to the government to increase our pensions. The argument is simple: workers’ salaries have been increased, while pensioners are also living in the same economy. We buy the same food and other commodities from the same markets.If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. If the price of a commodity increases, the pensioner also pays the new price. So, we are asking the government to increase pension payments to cushion the effect of inflation and rising living costs.How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. How has the government responded to your demands for improved pensions and welfare?They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. They have been making promises and, as we speak, we are still waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. We appreciate what the government has done in other areas, particularly regarding gratuities. But we want the government to also address the issue of monthly pensions.Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Our appeal is that the government should increase the monthly pension so that retirees can have some relief.Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Apart from monthly pensions, are there issues of gratuity arrears and other outstanding benefits?Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Yes, there have been issues concerning gratuities. However, I must say that Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been trying in that area. He has been settling gratuities owed by previous administrations.Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Under the local government system, some payments have been made up to 2023, although there are differences depending on the local government. In some places, payments stopped much earlier.For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. For example, there were cases where payments stopped around 2015 in Kaltungo and Gombe local government areas.On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. On the state civil service side, the government has almost cleared gratuities up to 2024.We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. We also heard that the government is planning to make further payments this August. So, the government has done a lot concerning gratuities, and we appreciate those efforts.How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. How long have pensioners been advocating an upward review of their pensions?It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. It has been an ongoing issue. We have continued to appeal to the government for an upward review. The problem is that some pensioners also wait for years before receiving their gratuities. So, our demands cover both the regular monthly pension and outstanding retirement benefits.What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What minimum pension do you believe would enable retirees to live with dignity under the current economic conditions?We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. We believe N50,000 would be a reasonable minimum pension.Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. Is N50,000 really enough considering the current cost of living?What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. What can we do? But if N50,000 is given to pensioners, it will certainly improve their living conditions compared with what some of them are currently receiving. It may not solve every problem, but it would provide some relief and give pensioners a greater ability to meet their basic needs.The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level. The important thing is that the government should look at the current economic realities and increase pensions from their present level.