By Bassey Asuquo
The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) has applauded the disbursement of N18.96 billion as settlement of outstanding back-end computation arrears owed to 3,958 eligible PHCN pensioners under the Defined Benefit Pension Scheme.
In a statement signed by the Chairman, Chukwudi Enekwechi, and Secretary Segun Ogedengbe, the group noted that the latest payment amounting to N9, 476 billion represents the outstanding 50 per cent balance of arrears owed to the affected pensioners.
The statement read: “It is noted that PTAD had earlier in June this year disbursed N9.,482 billion, representing the first 50 per cent tranche of the arrears. With the latest disbursement, it brings the total to N18,958 billion and fully settles the outstanding pensions owed to the retired PHCN staff.
“We consider this a major milestone in the settlement of outstanding liabilities, and it shows the Tinubu administration’s commitment to catering for the welfare and wellbeing of the pensioners.
“This is, for us, a clear demonstration of the federal government’s focus on issues that affect Nigerian workers, and this commitment has been reflected in other sectors such as the settlement of the Nigerian Airways pensions.
“We recall that these payments had been outstanding for more than two decades until the emergence of the Tinubu administration.
“Gladly, the federal government is addressing these issues one after the other. It also shows that the federal government is rewarding the pensioners for their meritorious service to the country and that the country’s senior citizens will always be recognised and rewarded for their sacrifices.
“We also acknowledge that the Tinubu administration has continued to recognise Nigerians who had devoted their productive years in national service.”
TMV applauded the federal government for making the benefits available to the pensioners who had served the country in the past.