Pensioners Applaud Tinubu’s Appointment of Bindawa as NSIWC Chairman
The Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners’ Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Major-General Junaid Bindawa as Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
The association said Bindawa’s experience, discipline and leadership qualities would help strengthen the commission and improve the welfare of Nigerian workers and pensioners.
In a congratulatory letter signed by its President-General, Elder Benjamin Amako, and Deputy General Secretary, Abubakar Usman, FEPPPAN expressed confidence that the appointment would bring greater attention to the concerns of pensioners and workers.
The association described the NSIWC as the “heartbeat” of workers’ and pensioners’ welfare, stressing that effective leadership was essential to protecting their interests.
Pensioners demand priority in wage review
FEPPPAN urged Bindawa to give pensioners adequate consideration in the implementation of the three-yearly review of pensions and wages, particularly amid the country’s economic challenges.
The association reminded the new chairman that the NSIWC has statutory responsibilities covering both workers and pensioners, including the periodic review of salaries and pensions.
It cited Section 173(3) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which it said empowers the commission to review the pensions of public and private sector pensioners alongside workers’ wages.
FEPPPAN also recalled that the Federal Government reduced the interval for pension and wage reviews from five years to three years in 2024, describing the policy as an important development that should be properly implemented.
“We have confidence in your pedigree, discipline and capacity, and hope that you will extend your kind good gesture to the senior citizens of this great country in the three-yearly reviews of pensions and wages,” the association said.
Call for inclusive approach
FEPPPAN further drew Bindawa’s attention to the three pension unions recognised by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment: FEPPPAN, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) and the Contributory Pensioners Union of Nigeria (CPUN).
The association urged the new NSIWC chairman to adopt an inclusive approach and ensure that the interests of both workers and pensioners are reflected in decisions concerning wages, pensions and incomes.
It expressed optimism that Bindawa’s leadership would strengthen the commission’s ability to fulfil its mandate and improve the welfare of senior citizens and workers across the country.
FEPPPAN also thanked President Tinubu for appointing what it described as a capable leader to head the commission and wished Bindawa wisdom, guidance and protection throughout his tenure.
