Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Trade Union of Congress (TUC), Comrade Akeem Lasisi has appealed to the eligible retirees on the payroll of the State Government to proceed and collect their cheques under the Additional Pension Benefit (APB), just as the union called for inclusion of all workers in the Contributory Pension Scheme, in order to ensure fairness for every worker in the service
The Ogun State government, under Governor Dapo Abiodun, had introduced an Additional Pension Benefit (APB) scheme for Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) retirees, offering 116% to 280% of their annual emolument as a one-off payment which the government commenced its implementation with the Issuance of cheques for payment to over 200 retirees and primary school teachers from the 20 local governments since March 26, 2026
Some of the beneficiaries however rejected the initiative whose objective is to increase their retirement benefits and bridge the gap between the CPS and old gratuity systems
But the State Chairman of TUC in his speech marking this year's May Day celebration on Friday in Abeokuta, pleaded with the affected retirees not to be confrontational but to be sophisticated in the struggle for their rights, assuring them of the necessary support of the organized labour in promoting the rights of all workers both in service and after retirement
"I wish to sincerely appeal to all eligible retirees to proceed without delay to collect their Additional Pension Benefits cheques".
"This appeal is made in good faith, considering the current economic challenges facing our retirees. These funds are intended to provide immediate relief and support; beneficiaries should take advantage of what is currently available"
"While we recognize the concerns raised and our constitutional rights to accept or reject any fund, such actions should not cause retirees unnecessary hardship by discouraging them from accessing funds already provided. Collecting these cheques does not interfere with any ongoing or future procedures"
"The Trade Union Congress remains dedicated to protecting the welfare and rights of all retirees. It will continue working constructively with relevant stakeholders to ensure fairness, transparency, and justice within the pension system. We encourage everyone to act wisely and in their best interest while allowing ongoing engagements to proceed appropriately", Lasisi stated
The TUC boss who expressed deep appreciation of the union to the Prince Dapo Abiodun's administration for the introduction of APB since July 2025 for retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme , saying the APB is more beneficial and favourable than what is obtainable at the federal level
He however expressed concern over the implementation of the CPS by government, insisting that all the workers irrespective of their status or cadre in the service must be included in the scheme, so to promote fairness and equity, adding that If a policy is good, it must be good for everyone
"The CPS, as currently implemented, has not been fully embraced by workers due to challenges with its design and implementation"
"Furthermore, questions have arisen as to why certain privileged categories of workers on consolidated salaries are exempted from the scheme. This has raised issues of equity, fairness, and inclusiveness, "he stated
TUC then urged Ogun State Government, in its usual magnanimity, to consider reviewing upward, preferably tripling the retirement savings contributions held with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs).
This according to the union, will ensure that retirees receive more substantial benefits through pensions and are better prepared to meet their needs, especially after age 70.
"Your Excellency, we believe that addressing these concerns will not only strengthen confidence in the scheme but also reinforce your legacy as a worker-friendly administration.", he advised
The TUC also stressed the need for government to consider the payment of
of the outstanding leave allowance owed to workers, saying It is important to note that about 60% of those affected have already retired
The union equally advocated for prompt promotion of workers in order for them
"We respectfully request that the 2025 promotion exercise be conducted, as some workers are already due in January for the 2026 promotion exercise"
"It is crucial we emphasize that promotions are given promptly when due, allowing workers to contribute at the correct rates for their salary grades and avoid being shortchanged",
TUC emphasized the importance of
implementing the statutory consequential adjustment that makes it mandatory to increase pension allowance by 33.3% whenever the mainstream workers enjoy a salary increase
Governor Dapo Abiodun represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Right Honourable Oludaisi Elemide, Secretary to the State Government, Tokubo Talabi, Chief of Staff, Dr. Oluwatoyin Taiwo, top and veteran labour leaders amongst other dignatries attended the event
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