By Michael Oche
The Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has outlined key priority areas for Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, the newly appointed minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.
In a statement jointly signed by its President-General, Elder Benjamin Amakko, and General Secretary, Mr. Franklin Erinle, the retirees’ body listed pensioners’ welfare, timely payment of benefits, and broader social protection for vulnerable groups at the top of its expectations from the minister.
FEPPPAN also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Oyedele as Minister of Finance, describing it as a reflection of deliberate leadership and commitment to economic management.
“By entrusting him with the stewardship of the nation’s finances and economic coordination, Mr. President has once again demonstrated a firm commitment to placing capable and result-driven individuals in positions that shape the country’s economic future,” the statement noted.
Highlighting the plight of retirees across the country, the union underscored the importance of timely pension payments, describing them as essential for survival rather than mere entitlements.
“Pensioners across the country earnestly look forward to not just the continuation but the strengthening of prompt, regular, and predictable pension payments.
“For millions of retirees, these payments are not mere entitlements but lifelines that sustain their dignity, health, and daily survival.”
It also called for immediate action on outstanding pension liabilities, drawing attention to the prolonged hardship faced by specific groups.
“We call for the urgent and compassionate release of funds to clear all outstanding pension arrears and accrued entitlements, especially those owed to MTEL/NITEL pensioners,” it said.
According to the union, “their prolonged suffering and deprivation underscore the need for immediate and decisive government intervention.”
The association expressed confidence in Oyedele’s capacity to drive reforms, noting that his leadership would be critical in restoring discipline and direction to Nigeria’s fiscal management.
“We express strong confidence in Mr. Oyedele’s competence, professionalism, and reform-driven outlook,” the statement noted, adding that “his leadership will bring discipline, innovation, and renewed direction to Nigeria’s fiscal management and economic coordination.”
It stressed that such leadership must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens, “particularly in ways that will positively impact vulnerable groups, including pensioners.”
“We respectfully appeal to both Mr. President and the Honourable Minister to strengthen financial and institutional support for PTAD and other relevant agencies,” it stated, noting that this is essential “to effectively discharge their mandates, particularly in addressing pension liabilities and expanding social protection for senior citizens.”
