A group of retired Nigerian Correctional Service personnel, known as Former Correctional Officers, is urging President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to facilitate their withdrawal from the Contributory Pension Scheme. Dissatisfied with the lack of benefits they have received from the scheme, the retirees argue that it is no longer sustainable given the country’s high inflation rate.
Sanya Abakun, the National Coordinator of the association, emphasized their concerns in a statement, stating, “The monthly pensions received by retired controllers and commandants, who were previously on Grade Level 15 in the paramilitary, average N75,000. Deputy Controllers on Level 14 earn N65,000; Assistant Controllers on Level 13 earn N60,000. Chief Superintendents on Grade Level 12 earn N50,000, and Deputy Superintendents on Level 10 earn N19,000.” The retirees note that these amounts are significantly lower than the earnings of their counterparts in the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the police.
Abakun further highlighted that other security agencies in the country, as well as the staff of the National Assembly, have already opted out of the Contributory Pension Scheme due to its inherent flaws. The association believes that what is suitable for one group should be applicable to others, as it is essential to recognize the crucial roles played by all paramilitary organizations within the country’s security structure.
The Former Correctional Officers are confident that by withdrawing from the scheme, they will be able to explore alternative pension options that are more favorable to their financial well-being. They urge President Tinubu and the National Assembly to swiftly address their concerns and facilitate their exit from the Contributory Pension Scheme allowing them to secure a better financial future.
