The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ FCT Council, and Nigeria Police Pensions Limited have agreed to strengthen collaboration to improve public awareness, promote transparency, and counter misinformation around police pensions.
NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by journalists to the pension firm’s headquarters in Abuja.
Ike said the media is central to democracy and accountability, and the visit marked the start of closer ties with the pension administrator.
"We are looking forward to a fruitful partnership because when journalists and pension administrators work together, we strengthen democracy, promote transparency and ensure that those who served our nation are cared for with dignity,” she said.
She expressed solidarity with retired police officers over pension payment and welfare concerns, adding that NUJ would continue to advocate for fair treatment. Ike also urged joint efforts in media advocacy, fact-checking, public enlightenment, and training journalists on pension reporting.
"We are aware of challenges facing retired police officers, including recent protests over pension adequacy. As a union that champions workers’ welfare, the NUJ stands in solidarity with all working people who deserve fair treatment and timely payment,” she added.
Managing Director/CEO of Nigeria Police Pensions Limited, Mr Muhammed Dutse, said the organisation is committed to transparency and welcomes media partnership for accurate public information.
He noted that despite over 20 years of contributory pensions in Nigeria, public understanding remains low, especially for police pensions.
“The issue of pension in Nigeria has become very sensitive, especially police pension. We want the media to help us tell our own side of the story truthfully and transparently,” Dutse said.
He acknowledged retirees’ protests but stressed the firm operates within legal provisions: “We sympathise with the retirees, but whatever we are doing, we try to operate within the ambit of the law.”
The Secretary and Legal Adviser explained that NPF Pensions Limited was created solely to manage pensions for police personnel and retirees. He said agitation stems from the risky nature of police work, and the firm is working with stakeholders to improve benefits beyond the Pension Reform Act.
“The scheme is working, but the truth is it should be tailored to the needs of the personnel. We are doing more than enough and, by the grace of God, it will soon be a thing of the past,” he said.
Both parties agreed to deepen cooperation on media engagement, public education, and accountability in pension administration.(Firm News)
