The Nigeria Labour Congress NLC, Kano, has urged Governor Abba Yusuf to help the union retrieve the unremitted contributory pension funds from ministries, parastatals and agencies in the state, amounting to over N75 billion.

Speaking during this year’s May Day parade on Wednesday, the State NLC Chairman, Kabiru Inuwa, said the issue of the backlog of unremitted pension contributions by some organizations is alarming, with a staggering accumulation of over 75 billion as of May 2023.

He said, “this poses a serious threat to the financial security of our retirees, the non remittance leads to deductions of pension thus nonpayment of full pension for years, by the government”, he added.

Kabiru Inuwa, notes, “While we commend the present administration for commencing full payment of pension, we demand that all defaulting government institutions shall commence paying the backlog to enable settlement of retirement and death benefit.”

“We are sure if elaborative analysis of the backlog is done and a strategy to recoup the money is put in place, the accrued benefits could be settled within a few years,” the Chairman insisted.

The NLC Chairman explained that “from the inception of this administration, workers recorded a series of applaudable victories as follows.

However, he appealed that the payment of wage award that was only paid once be revisited, saying workers rely on the awards to improve their standard of living and a consistent payment schedule should be established to ensure their welfare is safeguarded.

“The constitution of the governing board of the state contributory scheme as stipulated in the law is crucial for effective management. The board plays a vital role in overseeing the scheme and ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.”

” We sincerely commend the efforts of the Executive Secretary of the Pension Board for frequent visitation to facilities towards enhancing conformity from the service providers.

Inuwa explained that the much sought local government autonomy is crucial to the development of our state. It’s pertinent to solicit the support of the Kano State government in partnering with the agitators to make local government autonomy a reality.

“The re-introduction of institution-based disbursement of vehicle loans and its upward review is essential to meet the evolving needs of workers. This initiative will provide much-needed support to employees in acquiring vehicles while it will boost dedication to service. This is because the disbursements are done with guidelines part of which are punctuality, hard work and dedication.”

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Deputy, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, said since when they assumed office they have tried to make life easier for workers, reminding them that within no time the Government settled over N6 Billion unpaid Gratuity to Retirees.

Kano NLC expresses concern over N75bn unremitted contributory pensions