The Public Complaints Commission has convened a pivotal town hall meeting in Maiduguri, Borno State, focusing on enforcing compliance of private employers with pension reforms.
The event was aimed to undertake a systemic and proactive investigation into the implementation of these reforms by private employers in the Northeast region.
Key stakeholders which included representatives from the Commission’s headquarters: Ms. Edokpa Obehiaye Edna, Director of Investigation (Public); Mr. Abodunrin Olumide Elisha, Director of Public Relations, Foreign Support, and Inter-Agency Collaboration; and Ms. Agbese Jidere, Deputy Director of Investigation (Public).
Also in attendance were private sector representatives, government officials, and members of civil society. Discussions centered on the challenges of implementing the pension reforms and identifying solutions to ensure full compliance.
Hon. Federal Commissioner Alhaji Yusuf Adamu addressed the critical issue faced by many workers, stating that, “It is unacceptable that workers spend 35 years of service and end without a pension. This should not be tolerated any longer.”
His remarks underscored the urgent need for strict adherence to pension reforms to protect employees’ future.
Director of Investigation Salisu Mohammed El-Jumma emphasized the legal obligations for employers as provided in the Pension Act: “Every employer who employs more than five staff must enroll them in a pension scheme to ensure they enjoy life after retirement.”
This reinforced the necessity for employers to comply with pension regulations and provide adequate retirement benefits for their employees.
Speakers at the event highlighted the importance of raising awareness and educating employers about the pension reforms, as well as the need for ongoing monitoring and enforcement to protect employees’ rights.
The town hall meeting concluded with a call for collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector to enhance compliance and improve the effectiveness of pension reforms in Borno and other States in the Northeast region.
