Retirees of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) have threatened to shut down seaports across the country over what they describe as more than 16 years of unpaid and unreviewed pension benefits.
The warning was issued by the Nigerian Ports Authority Pensioners Welfare Association, which said it would commence a nationwide protest within seven days if its demands are not addressed.
The association’s president, Charles Ayo Binitie, said the planned action was triggered by the failure of NPA management to implement the constitutionally approved five-year pension increment, which he claimed has not been applied since 2008.
“It is sad and regrettable to say the least that, amid the present high inflation rate and economic downturn in Nigeria, only a few NPA retirees receive up to N100,000, while more than 50 percent earn between N50,000 and as low as N30,000 monthly,” Binitie said.
He argued that the current pension structure violates Section 173(3) of the Constitution, which provides for regular pension reviews.
According to him, repeated attempts to resolve the matter through official channels have been unsuccessful. He said the association had written to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission as well as the Presidency through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, but had received no response.
“The NPA is yet to furnish the Wages Commission with its documents for over 15 years, so that the necessary upward review can be made,” he added.
Binitie also dismissed claims of leadership disputes within the association, stating that court rulings—including a Lagos High Court judgment and a September 2025 ruling by an Apapa Magistrate Court—had affirmed his leadership.
He said the association now speaks with one voice, stressing that worsening economic conditions have made life increasingly difficult for retirees.
The group called on the federal government and relevant authorities to compel the NPA to clear all outstanding entitlements, including pension increments linked to the 2024 minimum wage.
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