After nearly a decade of struggle, CPS retirees say they’re stronger — but still not done fighting.
The Nigeria Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting members and strengthening Nigeria’s Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
Speaking at the union’s 9th anniversary in Abuja, National Chairman Sylva Nwaiwu said the journey hasn’t been easy. From its official recognition in 2017 under the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), the sector has battled funding gaps, delayed payments, and resistance from “visible and invisible forces.”
Before unionisation, CPS retirees reportedly faced underfunded pension budgets, non-release of approved funds, and arrears stretching up to 20 months. But Nwaiwu says things have improved — pension budgets are now fully appropriated and released on time, accrued rights arrears cleared, and retirees receive benefits in the same month of retirement.
He praised reforms under President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of PenCom DG Bridget Oloworaran, noting progress in pension increases and administrative efficiency.
Still, concerns remain. The union warned against attempts to create parallel bodies for CPS retirees, insisting freedom of association — guaranteed under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution — must be protected.
Meanwhile, Senior Assistant General Secretary of NUP, Alhaji Ahmed Gazali, called out the Federal Government over unpaid palliative funds. While workers reportedly received agreed payments, pensioners are yet to get their three-month package.
“Pensioners will not forget this,” he said, urging authorities to release the funds without delay.
He also welcomed innovations allowing Pension Fund Administrators to process payments directly and expressed hope that expanded healthcare support for retirees would enhance the lives of senior citizens.
Nine years on, the message from CPS retirees is clear: progress has been made — but accountability must continue.
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