The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has provided fresh insights into the newly introduced pension scheme for workers in Rivers State, aimed at ensuring more transparency, efficiency, and prompt payment to retirees.
Speaking to reporters, the Rivers State NLC Chairman, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, explained that under the new arrangement, pensioners will now receive their entitlements through a contributory pension scheme. The scheme requires joint contributions from both the state government and the workers.
According to Agwanwor, the Rivers State Government will contribute 17%, while workers will contribute 8% of their salaries toward the pension scheme. These contributions are also designed to cover gratuities.
“This new contributory pension model marks a major shift from the old system. It guarantees more accountability and eliminates unnecessary bottlenecks in pension administration,” Agwanwor stated.
He further revealed that retirees will no longer need to go through the state pension board to receive their pensions. Instead, once a retiree completes biometric verification, payments will be made directly to them without delay.
“This reform ensures that pensioners get what is due to them promptly and without stress. It’s part of our efforts to protect the dignity and welfare of workers beyond their active years,” Agwanwor added.
The NLC chairman also commended the Rivers State Government for supporting the transition to the contributory scheme and urged all workers to familiarize themselves with its procedures and benefits.
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